Backyard Bliss: How to Keep Biting Bugs Away This Summer in Nashville

There’s something magical about summer evenings in Nashville—until the bugs crash the party. Whether you’re sipping sweet tea on the porch or hosting friends for a backyard hang, nothing ruins the vibe faster than getting swarmed by mosquitoes, gnats, and no-see-ums.

These tiny pests love Middle Tennessee’s warm, humid climate—especially after a good rain. And if your yard holds moisture or has lots of shade, you’re basically throwing a welcome party for them.

Here’s how to take your yard back—without messing with nature or scaring off the songbirds.

1. Eliminate the Usual Suspects
Standing water is bug central. Do a quick sweep of your yard and empty anything collecting water—birdbaths, flowerpot saucers, gutters, toys, or even bottle caps. If your lawn stays soggy after rain, consider aerating or adding better drainage.

2. Use Wildlife-Safe Yard Sprays
Want to protect your space without harming pets, pollinators, or the occasional curious raccoon? These natural sprays are solid options:

• Wondercide Outdoor Pest Control – Made with cedar oil. Targets bugs, not butterflies.

• Mosquito Barrier – 100% garlic juice (yes, it’s strong). Great for repelling mosquitoes and gnats without harsh chemicals.

Reapply after heavy rains, but the peace of mind is worth it.

3. Let Your Garden Do the Work
Add a few strategic plants to your garden or patio setup to help keep bugs at bay:

• Lavender – Relaxing for you, repelling for bugs

• Citronella (lemongrass) – Tropical vibe + classic repellent

• Mint – Smells great, bugs hate it (keep it in pots—it spreads)

• Marigolds – Bright, low-maintenance, and bug-deterring

• Rosemary & Basil – Great for cooking and mosquito control

Pro tip: Cluster these near outdoor seating for the best effect.

4. Set the Mood (Without Inviting Mosquitoes)

• Swap your bulbs – Yellow-toned bug lights help reduce swarms

• Add a fan – Mosquitoes hate airflow

• Light some citronella – It’s not foolproof, but adds another layer of defense

5. Go High-Tech with a Misting System
For a permanent solution, consider a mosquito misting system. Think of it like an irrigation system that targets only pests—custom-spraying areas of your yard on a schedule using botanical insecticide. It’s discreet, low-maintenance, and highly effective if you’re serious about a bite-free backyard.

6. Want to Call in the Pros?
If DIY isn’t cutting it, Nashville has some great local pest control companies that get our climate:

• All-American Pest Control – Locally owned and eco-conscious

• PureGuard Pest Solutions – Great for customized yard treatments

• Arrow Exterminators – Trusted throughout the Southeast, solid long-term plans

They can handle everything from one-time sprays to full misting system installs.

Final Thoughts
Summer in Nashville should mean patio dinners, fireflies, and peaceful evenings—not constant swatting. With the right mix of natural repellents, smart landscaping, and tech-savvy solutions, you can enjoy your yard all season long.

Need local plant shop recs, a yard pro, or just dreaming of a new space altogether? Reach out anytime. Helping people love where they live—inside and out—is kind of my thing.