When you take on the task of designing your dream landscape, there are too many variables to consider all at once. With everything from the theme to ease of maintenance to think about, it is easy to get lost in the mess. You want to create a landscape that represents you and your property well, possesses a beautiful aesthetic, and works functionally. Checking all of these boxes is no simple task, and often the reason we (Dream Greener) even end up in the picture. Having been there before, time and time again, we know how to make sure you hit everything on your list. Sometimes, we even suggest additions to the list, like this one. Nobody likes mosquitoes, so when you take a look at your Pittsburgh landscape, consider these tips and tricks to keep mosquitoes away.
Avoid Overwatering
Just like humans and plants, mosquitoes love water. When there is standing water on your lawn, you create an environment ripe for not only disease and pests, but also mosquitoes. Your soil can only intake so much water at one time, and this is especially true with the hard clay we have in Pittsburgh. Figuring out the proper amount of water is key to solving this issue, which will typically be 1-2 inches per week. This can come from any source, so an inch of rainfall is the same as an inch from the hose. Standing water can also be a drainage problem, with water runoff pooling up in one particular area. Look into the installation of a retaining wall or french drain that can direct water to a healthier area of your landscape.
Rock Replacement
Moisture is not only found in pools of water, it is inherently carried by any green material. Your turf, plants, and even mulch will hold some amount of moisture, and be attractive to mosquitoes. Rather than deal with this, replacing mulch and non-repellent plants with decorative rock can keep these critters away. On top of their inability to hold moisture, rocks are also unappealing to mosquitoes, and will not be an attractive location.
Install Mosquito Repellent Plants
Another great way to keep mosquitoes away is to replace plant material in your beds with plants that naturally repel with their scent. There are numerous examples of these plants, as generally speaking strong scents are one of the best ways to keep them out. Garden plants like lemongrass, mint, basil, oregano, and even peppermint will all repel mosquitoes. Additionally, ornamental plants like lavender, rosemary, marigolds, and geraniums will all do the trick.
Utilize Dream Greener’s Mosquito Management Program
If these natural remedies do not keep away the pesky insects, do not fear. At Dream Greener, we take a deep interest in creating picturesque landscapes for our clients, which cannot be the case if they are infested with mosquitoes. We attack the roots of the problem, in source locations like dense grass and shady areas. The application of adulticide will kill live mosquitoes and is not harmful to humans in any way. However, the use of any chemical in your landscape should be done by a professional, so better safe than sorry.
Dream Greener Lawn & Landscape is led by a staff of service experts, each with ten years or more of professional experience, focused exclusively on lawn care & maintenance, landscaping, and snow & ice management. Locally owned and operated, we are proud to serve the greater Pittsburgh area. Give us a call at (412) 835-1035 or visit our website today.
