Installing a pergola is a great way to elevate your outdoor space and enjoy nature—as long as you keep the bugs away.
Some effective ways to keep bugs out of your pergola is by sweeping your dining area, wiping off the furniture, and hosing down any spills. In addition, yellow bulbs or LED lights with yellow hues are typically less attractive to bugs than traditional white lights.. You can also opt for insect-repelling plants such as citronella and lavender to add beauty and function to your space.
Keep Your Pergola Clean
If you notice bugs every time you step outside, start by cleaning. Sweep away any debris, leaves, and dirt that may have accumulated on the roof or crevices. A little home maintenance can go a long way in keeping insects away.
Most importantly, don’t leave crumbs and sticky substances on surfaces. At the end of the evening, sweep your dining area, wipe off the furniture, and hose down any messes. Insects are attracted to fermented food and beverages, and be sure to drain standing water from downspouts, buckets, and gutters, which attract mosquitos.
Carefully Choose Your Lighting Options
As noted above, bugs are attracted to light, so choosing the right lighting for your pergola is essential. Yellow bulbs or LED lights with yellow hues are typically less attractive to insects. At Outdoor Elements, our state-of-the-art poolside pergola offers fully integrated LED channel lighting, so you can easily change it as needed.
Smoke and heat are other natural bug repellents, so consider adding a chiminea as a stylish solution. Not only will it keep bugs away, but it’ll also provide warmth and light for cozy evenings outside. Just follow proper safety precautions and check local regulations.
Choose Insect-Repelling Plants
Not all plants are created equal when it comes to bug-repellent properties. Consider adding the following to your landscaping:
- Citronella: This is probably the most well-known plant for repelling mosquitoes—and for good reason. The oil, extracted from the leaves, is effective against mosquitoes, flies, and other flying insects.
- Lavender: The essential oil in lavender is effective against mosquitoes, flies, and even moths. Bees and butterflies love lavender, so you’ll be doing your part for the environment, too.
- Catnip: The essential oil in catnip is effective against mosquitoes, flies, and even cockroaches.
In addition, consider adding rosemary, marigolds, lemon thyme, geraniums, and basil. Finally, ants do not like chrysanthemums, flies are not fond of basil, and moths are repelled by lavender.
Create a Relaxing Outdoor Oasis
With a bit of time and care, innovative lighting, and strategically placed plants, you can create a bug-free retreat you’ll love spending time in all year.
With features ranging from automated screening to LED lighting, our luxurious pergolas can be customized to fit your outdoor space. Contact Outdoor Elements USA to learn more about our extensive line of products.
