Not too long ago, we posted a blog about how to keep bugs out of your swimming pool. The reality is that bugs are good for nature, but for us, it is a different story. Bugs crawl, creep, sting, bite, and fly around the pool. Yep, they can be a nuisance!
On the other hand, many recommend artifacts to keep bugs out of the pool area, such as fidget lights and smoke. It’s convenient, but not nice to smell or have a sore eye in the pool area. So let us look at some repellents that can be convenient to have around for some of these “uninvited guests”:
Birdhouse/Bird Feeders
Did you know that most birds eat insects? Birds are beautiful to look at and help reduce the number of insects and creepy crawlies in your yard. Add a birdhouse or bird feeder to attract more feathered friends, and you’ll see the insects start to disappear.
Fan
Insects cannot fly well when there is a strong wind. Adding a wind effect to your garden will help keep insects away. Place a fan near the seating area or a door to keep insects out of the house.
Fragrant Oils
Many fragrant oil options help keep some bugs away. Many homeopaths believe in scented oils; they smell good and are environmentally friendly. A cinnamon scent, for example, helps repel ants and earwigs. Other essential oils can also help repel them:
- Peppermint – is excellent for keeping spiders, mosquitoes, and roaches away.
- Vanilla and tea tree oils – if you have centipedes crawling around the pool, a few drops are all it takes, and they’ll disappear.
- Lemongrass – if you have problems with flies, lemongrass will help keep them away.
You can also mix these oils with some alcohol, water, and a little coconut oil in a spray bottle. If you have a diffuser, place it in your garden.
IMPORTANT: Do not put essential oils in your swimming pool.
Keep the Pool and Backyard Clean
Algae, microorganisms, food scraps, and garbage attract bugs. It’s essential to clean up after a barbecue, throw away the trash, and clean the pool regularly.
Your Garden as a Repellant
There’s nothing better than sitting and enjoying your swimming pool and garden. But did you know there are plants you can put in your yard to keep bugs away from your oasis?
Spring is just around the corner. If you are preparing the garden around your pool or have just purchased a new swimming pool, be sure to read on.
We have mentioned the essential oils of natural plants and how they act as repellents for certain critters and bugs. However, you may also be thinking about flowers and plants you would like to have in your garden. Allow us to recommend some garden items that will make your garden beautiful and detract insects:
- Geranium – Originally from South Africa, geranium is a plant known for its bright colors. It is also a flower that requires little to no maintenance. There are a variety of geranium plants, but red geraniums help keep bees away from the area. Combine red geraniums with lemon-scented geraniums to reduce the number of mosquitoes in your garden.
- Jasmine – A typical flower from tropical regions, jasmine is known to keep mosquitoes away. Not only does jasmine keep mosquitoes away, but it also adds a lovely scent to your garden. Surround it with as many jasmine flowers as possible to prevent mosquito bites, especially in the evening.
- Basil and Rosemary – Although spice plants, they are also potent repellents. Just place them in strategic areas, and it will keep the bugs away.
- Wormwood – Known for its medicinal properties and used since ancient times as an effective remedy against moths, wormwood is a valuable plant to keep insects away. Its presence deters bees and wasps. Take this into account when choosing plants in your garden.
- Magnolia – A flower famous for its beauty and fragrance, it is also an excellent bee repellent. Plant a few specimens near the pool to keep mosquitoes away.
It’s always good to ask questions about how you can prevent bugs from invading your backyard oasis. Our staff at Platinum Pools is ready to advise you on anything pool-related. Call us at 281-870-1600 or visit our website for a free quote.