DIY Outdoor Decor to Keep Bugs Away
Let bugs know they’re not invited to your backyard barbecue with these DIY home décor ideas.
Don’t let the mosquitoes, gnats and other bugs keep your guests from enjoying a perfect evening on the patio.
While you’re planning your party, keep these DIY outdoor decor ideas in mind to keep bugs away and enjoy your company even after the sun goes down.
Floating citronella candles
These all-natural jars look great and are easy to make with ingredients from the kitchen. (Photo by Frank Espich)
Citronella and flames are both known to ward off annoying bugs. Floating citronella candles in mason jars or clear vases are decorative and a great two-in-one solution.
While there are many variations, try putting citronella oil, orange peels, a cinnamon stick and rosemary in a clear jar. Light a floating candle to finish off this DIY décor.
Make a few jars to use as a centerpiece or scatter them around on side tables to keep the bugs from ruining your outdoor fun.
Lavender
Lavender deters bugs and provides bright summer color to your table. (© Thinkstock)
Mosquitoes and gnats hate the fragrance of lavender. Try planting lavender around your outdoor seating areas to ward off these little pests while you enjoy the soothing scent.
For outdoor entertaining, put up an extra layer of defense by placing buds and flowers of the plant around your table, in your centerpiece or by hanging lavendar sections near doors and on windowsills to prevent bugs from flying indoors.
Wine bottle tiki torches
These wine bottle tiki torches are a perfect picnic table centerpiece. (Photo courtesy of Redeem Your Ground)
For backyard events that last long into the night, skip the tealights and go for a tiki torch instead. Turn empty wine bottles into these DIY tiki torches by outdoor living experts at Redeem Your Ground for your next event.
The burning citronella flame will keep the mosquitoes far away while you enjoy the company of your guests around this aesthetic décor.
For this project, you’ll need a wine bottle, wick, coupling, thread sealant tape, pea gravel and citronella torch fuel. For step-by-step DIY directions, visit Redeem Your Ground.
Planting herbs
Place a pot of basil on the table to help keep bugs at bay . (Photo by Brandon Smith)
Sweet Basil will also ward off flies and mosquitoes. You can grow basil plants indoors all year round and then place them outside during the summer.
If you don't have basil plants, pick them up at a local garden center, and put them in small decorative pots for easy DIY outdoor décor. Place them on the table as an effortless centerpiece for a last-minute get together.
Citronella candle in a soup can
Place citronella candles around the yard to keep bugs away. (Photo by Frank Espich)
If tiki torches aren’t your style and you need a longer lasting flame, try creating your own candles.
“Make these all natural citronella candles with essential oils that bugs hate and you will love!” says Stephanie Rose, creator of the blog Garden Therapy.
Try adding oils, such as eucalyptus, peppermint or rosemary. Decorate the can to compliment your table and store the candle until the wax runs out. Learn how to make your own with Garden Therapy.