Safety Sense: Bugs? Not in Your Backyard

Sure, spending time outdoors is great - except for all the bugs. But experts say you can stay bug free - without spending a fortune - if you...

Get out the clippers.
Keep tree branches cut back from your deck and patio, and minimize ants. Also, pull up any weeds nearby. Mosquitoes use them as rest stops.

Give flowers a shower.
Soaking them thoroughly with a garden hose before a picnic or party to mimic a rain shower. Pollinating insects like bees don't like wet conditions and will stay away until plants dry out. That's usually about two hours.

Blow bugs away... with a fan.
The air current from a fan will deter flying and biting insects because they aren't strong enough to fly against the wind it makes. It'll also blow away any trace of your scent, so they can't find you.

Keep flies away with basil.
Flies hate basil, so if you keep a plant on your patio, they'll stay clear.

Wipe down tables with vinegar.
Its a great disinfectant that bugs back away from, so they'll stay away from your patio table. Outdoors, the odor will fade so it won't bother guests.

Plant the natural pesticide.
Beautiful chrysanthemums. Their leaves contain the same chemical, pyrethin, found in most pesticides. Just having them in your garden will send bugs packing.