Mosquitoes can turn even the most peaceful summer evening into an irritating ordeal, but one expert says a simple change to your outdoor setup could make your yard far less inviting to the biting pests.
Instead of reaching for chemical sprays first, homeowners may be able to start with their lighting by replacing an outdoor bulb.
What's happening?
The lights around patios, decks, and other backyard hangout spots could be part of the problem. As Tom's Guide reported, mosquitoes and other insects may be especially drawn to cool-toned garden lighting.
Jon Saeed, managing director at Lighting Legends, explained: "While you're sitting out in the garden into the late evening, you may notice there are more mosquitoes, especially if you have cool-toned garden lights."
Saeed says warmer outdoor bulbs are a better choice, specifically yellow or warm-toned options in the 2,200K-to-2,700K range. In his view, those are far less likely to attract insects than cooler lights above 5,000K.
Beyond lighting, Saeed pointed to several other low-effort steps that can help, such as clearing standing water, cutting back overgrowth, setting up fans near seating areas, and planting herbs and flowers that repel mosquitoes.
TCD Picks » Quince Spotlight
💡These best-sellers from Quince deliver affordable, sustainable luxury for all
Why does it matter?
For many households, a garden can provide homegrown fruits, vegetables, and herbs that often taste better than store-bought produce while helping families cut grocery costs.
Gardening can also support mental and physical health. Spending time tending plants can reduce stress, encourage movement, and make it easier to spend more time outdoors.
Changing a bulb is relatively inexpensive compared with repeatedly buying sprays, candles, or other pest-control products.
Because the tip focuses on prevention instead of pesticides, it may also appeal to households looking for lower-chemical ways to make their outdoor spaces more comfortable during hot, humid weather.
What can I do?
Swapping bright, cool-toned lighting for warmer yellow bulbs could help keep fewer insects hovering around patios and other seating areas.
Another important move is to get rid of places where mosquitoes can breed. Saeed noted, "Bugs like mosquitoes breed in stagnant water, so eliminating standing water sources can go a long way in helping to reduce their population." Empty water from pots, trays, gutters, and birdbaths regularly.
You can further reduce mosquito activity by trimming grass and shrubs, using fans near outdoor gathering spaces, and adding plants such as lavender, basil, marigolds, lemon balm, and citronella grass.
Get TCD's free newsletters for easy tips, smart advice, and a chance to earn $5,000 toward home upgrades. To see more stories like this one, change your Google preferences here.
