Brits planning to make the most of the sunny spells with a barbecue are being given tips on how to keep the pesky bugs away. The experts at GardeningExpress.co.uk have named eight simple ways to stop bugs buzzing around food and drinks when hosting a barbecue.
Simple tricks like lighting Citronella candles, planting insect-repellant plants, keeping food covered and the outdoor area clean are great for warding off the uninvited guests. By implementing these tips it’s possible to create a more enjoyable barbecue experience for everyone involved.
Chris Bonnett, the founder of GardeningExpress.co.uk said: “It’s extremely annoying when there are bugs flying about when you’re trying to enjoy a barbecue with your guests. Fortunately, there are simple and inexpensive ways to repel insects trying to crash your garden party.
“To ensure a pleasant outdoor dining experience, it’s important to keep food covered until it’s ready to be served and keep the area clean to prevent attracting bugs with food odours.
“A lot of these tricks involve using common household items, plants and foods and they’re all great alternatives for chemical insect sprays.”
How to keep bugs away from the BBQ:
Insect-repellant plants
Plants like Lavender, Chrysanthemum, Marigold and Lemongrass are natural bug repellents because of their smell. Plant a couple of these near the barbecue to discourage insects and add some colour to your garden.
Citronella candles
Citronella oil is known to repel bugs, so light some Citronella candles around the seating areas. Not only will they drive away insects, the candles also create a cosy atmosphere in the garden and release an aromatic smell.
Eliminate food odours
Make sure to clean up any food debris, spills and garbage straight away or you’ll be attracting bugs with food odours. You should also keep all foods covered until they’re ready to be served.
Foods that deter bugs
Certain foods can actually help to deter bugs, so feel free to leave these out to keep the insects away by releasing a distinctive smell that the bugs hate. Such foods include garlic, onions, lemons and grapefruit which you can place on plates and spread around the area to keep the insects well away.
Water and pennies
This interesting trick uses light reflection to confuse bugs and drive them away. Fill up a few glasses of water and drop some pennies into each cup. Place these near your barbecue and serving area and you’ll notice the flies won’t come past them.
Herbs
Include herbs that bugs won’t come near in your dishes. Throw some sage, rosemary, basil or chives on the grill while you’re cooking your barbecue and the bugs will stay clear.
Time your barbecue wisely
Some insects are more active during specific times of the day. Plan your barbecue during daylight hours when mosquitoes and other biting bugs are less active.
Mow the grass
Mowing the grass regularly can help reduce the population of bugs in your garden. Make sure to cut the grass before your barbecue to eliminate potential breeding grounds and hiding spots.
