If you’re planning a picnic this summer, you may be wondering how to get rid of picnic bugs. Picnic bugs are pesky, and can ruin a good time. Fortunately, there are some proven strategies to keep these pests away. In this article, I’ll discuss the best ways to keep picnic bugs away, so you can enjoy your outdoor meal without the uninvited guests.
Types of Bugs Commonly Found at Picnics
Common picnic bugs include ants, flies, gnats, and wasps. Ants are perhaps the most common type of bug to find at a picnic. They are attracted to food and will quickly swarm any food that is left out. Flies are also common, as they can be attracted to food, as well as other things such as garbage. Gnats are small flying insects that can be attracted to standing water and plants. Lastly, wasps can be attracted to food, as well as their nests. Wasps should be avoided, as their sting can be very painful.
Preventative Measures
I can take some simple steps to prevent picnic bugs from ruining my outdoor eating experience. First, I should keep all food and drinks covered at all times. This will help prevent any bugs from getting into the food. I should also use insect repellent to keep away any more bugs. Placing citronella candles around the area will drive away any that may be hanging around. Keeping the trash away from the eating area will also help, as bugs will be attracted to it. Lastly, I should clean up any spills immediately, as this will make the area less attractive to bugs.
Natural Remedies
Essential Oils
I use essential oils such as citronella, eucalyptus and tea tree to help keep picnic bugs at bay. I like to mix them together and spray them around the picnic area. This helps to keep the bugs away and it smells nice too. I also like to use lavender oil which has a calming effect and helps to keep the stress levels down.
2. Neem Oil
- In a spray bottle, mix one part neem oil with four parts water.
- Shake the bottle well to mix the ingredients.
- Spray the neem oil mixture onto the leaves of plants and grasses where picnic bugs are likely to feed.
- Reapply the neem oil every few days or after it rains.
Neem oil has insecticidal properties that can kill and repel picnic bugs. The oil is derived from the neem tree, an evergreen native to India. The oil is non-toxic to humans and other mammals, but it can be harmful to fish and aquatic life.
3. Lemon Eucalyptus Oil
I use lemon eucalyptus oil to repel picnic bugs. It’s an easy-to-find, natural product that’s safe to use on adults and children. All I have to do is mix a few drops of lemon eucalyptus oil into a spray bottle with water and then I can spray it around my picnic area. It won’t harm the food or anything else but it will keep those annoying bugs away. It has a pleasant smell and it’s not too strong, so it’s great for keeping my family safe and comfortable.
4. Peppermint Oil
I’ve found peppermint oil to be an effective way to deter picnic bugs. I simply rub a few drops of the oil onto my skin, and the bugs will stay away. It’s a natural, non-toxic way to repel bugs, and the smell is pleasant too. I also like to use peppermint oil in a spray bottle mixed with water, and I spray the mixture around the picnic area. This will help to keep bugs away from my food and the surrounding area.
5. Garlic
- Keep garlic cloves with you in a plastic bag.
- If you notice any bugs, crush the garlic cloves and spread them around the area.
- The strong smell of garlic will help to repel the bugs and keep them away.
- If the garlic cloves are spread near the entrance of your picnic, it will also act as a natural barrier against the bugs.
6. Cayenne Pepper
- Sprinkle cayenne pepper around the picnic area to deter bugs from entering.
- Cayenne pepper acts as a natural repellent for bugs.
- It also works as a deterrent for ants, flies, and other insects.
- Make sure to reapply the cayenne pepper after it rains or when you’ve been away for a long time.
Chemical Remedies
I can use chemical remedies to get rid of picnic bugs. Insecticides are the most common chemical remedy used to kill bugs. Insecticides come in many forms, including aerosols, baits, sprays, and dusts. Depending on the type of bug, I can choose the most appropriate insecticide. I should also read the manufacturer’s instructions before using the insecticide.
| Type of Insecticide | Usage |
|---|---|
| Aerosols | Spray directly onto the bugs |
| Baits | Lay out the bait where the bugs are |
| Sprays | Spray on surfaces and areas where the bugs are |
| Dusts | Sprinkle onto surfaces and areas where the bugs are |
I should also use insecticidal soaps and oils to control the bugs. Insecticidal soaps are made from fatty acids and can be used to kill soft-bodied bugs. Insecticidal oils are made from petroleum, neem, and other vegetable oils and can be used to kill hard-bodied bugs. These products should be applied directly onto the bugs and/or the affected area.
Finally, I can use chemical repellents to keep bugs away. Chemical repellents come in many forms, including liquids, sprays, and lotions. I should read the manufacturer’s instructions and determine the most appropriate repellent for the bugs I’m dealing with.
1. Insecticides
- Look for an insecticide that is specifically designed to target ants, wasps, and other picnic bugs.
- Apply the insecticide in the affected area, following the directions given on the label.
- Reapply the insecticide if necessary. Be sure to read the instructions on the label for how often it should be reapplied.
- Make sure that the insecticide is safe to use around food, animals, and children.
2. Insect Repellents
I like to keep my insect repellents close by when I’m having a picnic. There are many insect repellents available on the market, but I prefer to use the ones that contain DEET (N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide). This chemical works very effectively to keep bugs away, and most products containing DEET offer protection for up to 8 hours. I also make sure to apply my insect repellent after I get dressed and before I go outside, and I also make sure to reapply it every few hours for maximum protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most effective strategies for getting rid of picnic bugs?
The most effective strategies for getting rid of picnic bugs include keeping food covered, avoiding sugary drinks, cleaning up promptly, and using insect repellent. Keeping food covered, such as in closed containers or under a tarp, can help prevent bugs from getting to the food. Avoiding sugary drinks can also help reduce the number of bugs as they are drawn to sweet substances. Cleaning up all food and drink residues, such as spills and crumbs, helps to remove the attraction for bugs. Finally, using insect repellents can help keep bugs away from the picnic area.
How can I keep bugs away from food outside?
Keep food and drinks covered with lids or netting when possible. Make sure to keep food covered when not in use and cover leftovers immediately. Keep garbage and compost bin sealed. Use fans to blow away flying insects. Place citronella candles or bug zappers around your picnic area. Spray insect repellent around the area. Cut off access to standing water, which can be a breeding ground for insects.
What are some tips for keeping bugs away from a picnic?
• Use citronella candles or torches to repel insects.
• Place tables away from areas with standing water and trees.
• Keep food covered at all times.
• Eliminate sources of food and water such as garbage cans and pet food dishes.
• Wear light-colored clothing, as dark colors attract insects.
• Use insect repellent containing DEET or other active ingredients.
• Use bug zappers and bug traps.
• Spray insect repellent around the perimeter of the picnic area.
What can I do to prevent bugs from ruining my outdoor gathering?
Ensure your outdoor gathering area is well-maintained and free of standing water or potential bug habitats. Keep the area clear of food debris, and clean up any spilled drinks or food immediately. Use screens to keep bugs from entering your area, and place citronella candles or other natural bug repellents around your gathering area. Apply bug repellent to your body and clothing before heading outdoors.
What are some natural ways to repel bugs from a picnic area?
Use citronella candles or torches to keep mosquitoes away. Place a few cloves of garlic around the picnic area which will act as a natural insect repellent. Planting lavender and marigolds around the area will help keep pests away. Put a few bunches of mint around the area for a natural insect repellent. Hang some wind chimes around the picnic area to keep flies away. Use a mixture of water and apple cider vinegar to create a natural bug spray.
Conclusion
Picnic bugs can be a real nuisance, but with the right strategies, they can be kept away. Packing the right items, such as citronella candles and bug repellent, and setting up barriers like tarps and nets can be effective ways to keep the bugs away from your picnic. Additionally, it’s important to clean up after your picnic and avoid leaving food out. By following these strategies, you can enjoy a bug-free picnic.
