A BBQ in the back garden can be a pleasant way to pass a summer afternoon – but not if bugs get in the way.
No one wants to be flapping about on their Outback reclining chairs, trying to keep midges and other pests off their food. Thankfully, there are some simple ways to keep the bugs away.
Time it right
Some of the more common and annoying garden pests – from mosquitoes to gnats and midges – tend to be more of a problem after the sun goes down. Scheduling the BBQ element of your garden party for the daytime should reduce the problem.
Plant certain flowers
There is such a thing as pest repellent plants. They include the likes of lemongrass, marigold, chrysanthemum and lavender. All of these look beautiful and smell fragrant to humans, but their scent has the opposite effect on bugs. If you have any of them in your garden, position your BBQ close by. If not, consider adding them.
Keep it clean
The smells of the food will help to bring the bugs to your garden, so wipe away any spillages or bits of dried food as soon as possible. Keep any food you plan to grill on the BBQ completely covered until it is ready to be cooked.
Use citronella candles
These are special candles that have bug repelling qualities. They are pleasing for humans, as they are aromatic and atmospheric, but bugs like midges and mosquitoes cannot stand their scent. It can help to place them carefully around the eating area for a pest-free meal.
