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| THE COLONY NEWS | JULY 2024 | 35 By Margaret Norville Summer has arrived with its warmer weather, longer days and the joys of outdoor living. What's not to like? Mosquitoes – that's what! Although only the females bite, the males buzz around in search of females and are annoying in their own way. While there's no escaping these pests, there are ways to be prepared. Here are some scents that mosquitoes absolutely hate: • Citronella from the lemongrass plant • Catnip • Rosemary • Garlic • Lemon balm and other citrus • Eucalyptus • Coffee • Peppermint • Lavender • Marigold Clever use of these scents can help keep you safe. Use these plants in your yard, especially near where you sit. Consider filling multiple planters with a combination of these plants. Look for these scents in colognes, candles or essential oils, then spray them on you, your clothing or in the air mixed with water. Dryer sheets often have these scents and can be a convenient way to protect yourself. Wearing long sleeves and pants can help and a properly positioned fan can keep these pests at bay. Consider making a mosquito trap using directions you can find on the Internet. Mosquitoes bite any vertebrate, including house pets. There are 50 species in California and the life cycle from egg to adult is about one week, so that explains the volume of these critters in prime season. Beware of tall grasses, standing water and leaf piles as these are favorite places for mosquitoes to lay eggs. Think not only of ponds but dog water dishes, saucers under plant pots, leaves in gutters or any standing water in your area. If you do have a pond or fountain, you can add a mosquito larvicide to combat them. Should these methods fail, and you are bitten, the best response is to wash the area with soap and water then apply a cold pack for ten minutes. Aloe and apple cider vinegar are common application solutions. In addition, there are numerous products on the market that promise relief. Do your research and determine what best works for you. The battle is on. You can win this. No Skeeter Zone!