If it feels like the mosquitoes in your yard have declared war this summer… you’re not imagining things. They’re biting harder, showing up earlier, and turning every backyard hangout into a battle.

But here’s the deal: you’re not helpless—and this guide will show you exactly how to fight back.

If you’re searching for how to keep mosquitoes away from your Des Moines yard, we’re cutting straight to what works: fast fixes, natural repellents, and when it’s time to bring in the pros.

Mosquito biting human skin – Bobcat Wildlife & Pest Management helps Des Moines homeowners learn how to keep mosquitoes away with expert pest control solutions

Before anything else, let’s break down why your yard might be buzzing with mosquitoes in the first place—so you know what you’re really up against.

🦟 Why Your Des Moines Yard Might Be a Mosquito Magnet

Des Moines summers are beautiful—but also mosquito-friendly if you’re not prepared.

Thanks to warm temps and pop-up storms, Iowa yards can become prime mosquito real estate without you even realizing it.

Mosquitoes don’t need much: just a bit of stagnant water and a shady place to rest. And once they settle in, they’ll keep coming back.

Here’s what makes your yard extra inviting:

  • Pooled water in clogged gutters, buckets, birdbaths, or flowerpots

  • Damp corners under decks or behind sheds

  • Tall grass or overgrown shrubs that offer cool, shaded hiding spots

  • Unkempt areas with leaves, mulch, or yard debris that trap moisture

  • Low-lying areas that collect rain and don’t dry quickly

If you’re serious about how to keep mosquitoes away this summer, it starts with knowing what attracts them. The good news? Most of these problems are fixable—and fast.

⚡Fast Yard Fixes That Actually Work

Now that you know what’s attracting mosquitoes, let’s talk about how to stop them—fast.

These aren’t long-term projects or complicated treatments. These are simple, proven steps you can take today to start turning your yard from a mosquito hotspot into a no-fly zone.

If you’re looking for how to prevent mosquitoes in yard spaces quickly and effectively, start with these easy, high-impact fixes:

  • Dump all standing water – Check places like gutters, flowerpot trays, toys, tarps, and birdbaths. Mosquitoes only need a bottle cap’s worth of water to start breeding.

  • Mow the lawn and trim back overgrowth – Short grass and well-pruned shrubs leave mosquitoes with fewer places to hide.

  • Clear out shaded, damp clutter – Wood piles, old tarps, and leaf piles trap moisture and give mosquitoes the shade they love.

  • Use outdoor fans in seating areas – Mosquitoes are weak fliers. A fan on the patio or deck can make it harder for them to land (and bite).

  • Switch to yellow LED bulbs – These “bug lights” are less appealing to insects and can help reduce mosquitoes in yard areas you use at night.

Doing just a few of these can make a noticeable difference. And the more you do, the less comfortable your yard becomes for mosquitoes—and the more comfortable it becomes for you.

🪴 What to Plant (and Where) to Help Repel Mosquitoes

Want to add some beauty to your yard and push mosquitoes out at the same time? Certain plants do more than just look good—they naturally help keep bugs at bay.

If you’ve been wondering how to repel mosquitoes in yard areas more naturally, these time-tested plants can make a real difference—especially when used strategically:

  • Citronella – The classic mosquito-repelling plant. Grow it in pots near patios or doorways for targeted protection.

  • Marigolds – Not only do they add bright color, but their scent helps drive mosquitoes away. Line them along garden borders or walkways.

  • Lavender – Its soothing scent may calm you—but not mosquitoes. Use it in flower beds near sitting areas or windows.

  • Basil – A double win: repels mosquitoes and elevates your cooking. Keep it in pots on your deck or around outdoor dining spaces.

  • Lemon balm – This hardy plant thrives in Iowa summers and gives off a citrusy scent mosquitoes hate. Tuck it near entrances or shady sitting spots.

These plants won’t do all the work on their own—but when combined with other mosquito-prevention steps, they’re a great way to help keep mosquitoes away from your yard more naturally.

🧴Natural Repellents That Give You a Head Start

If you want an extra layer of protection beyond planting, natural repellents can help fill the gaps—especially when you’re planning to spend more time outdoors.

One of the most effective natural options? Lemon eucalyptus oil. It’s backed by the CDC as a plant-based mosquito repellent and comes in spray form at most stores. Just apply it to exposed skin before heading outside.

You can also try:

  • 1

    Citronella candles – These are best used in enclosed patio areas to help create a mosquito-repelling zone while you relax or entertain.

  • 2

    Natural bug sprays – Look for formulas with essential oils like peppermint, lavender, or geranium, but always read the label—especially if you have young kids or pets.

🐾 Note on safety: Essential oils may cause irritation for sensitive skin and can be harmful to pets if used incorrectly. Always test a small area first and keep repellents stored safely.

🩹 How to Stop Mosquito Bites When It’s Too Late

Even with your best efforts, sometimes mosquitoes still manage to sneak in a few bites. But getting bit doesn’t mean you’re losing the fight—it just means it’s time to shift from prevention to relief.

Here’s how to stop mosquito bites from ruining the rest of your day:

  • 1

    Wash the area gently with soap and water to remove any irritants and reduce the chance of infection.

  • 2

    Apply cold compress or ice to reduce any swelling and alleviate itching.

  • 3

    Use anti-itch creams or calamine lotion to calm the skin and reduce scratching (which can make things worse).

And if you’re heading back outside, take a few smart precautions to avoid more bites:

  • 1

    Cover up with long sleeves and pants, specifically around daybreak and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.

  • 2

    Avoid wearing dark colors, as they can attract mosquitoes.

A few bites aren’t the end of the world—but they’re a good reminder to double down on the steps that work. Let’s talk next about what to do when DIY methods just aren’t cutting it.

📞 When DIY Isn’t Enough—Call in the Local Experts  

You’ve done your part. Now let us take it from here.

At Bobcat Wildlife & Pest Management, we specialize in professional mosquito pest control in Des Moines—designed specifically for Iowa’s unpredictable summers and high-risk mosquito seasons.

What sets our service apart?

  • Custom treatment plans that target breeding zones and shaded hot spots around your property

  • Safe solutions you can trust around kids, pets, and summer get-togethers

  • Ongoing control that doesn’t just reduce mosquitoes—it keeps them away long-term

We’ve helped families across Des Moines take back their yards—and their summers. Whether you’re dealing with just a few stragglers or a full-on swarm, we’re here to help you shut it down for good.

You don’t have to fight this alone. With Bobcat on your side, the bites stop—and the peace of mind starts.

🌞 Want a Mosquito-Free Summer? Here’s What to Do Next

If you’re serious about how to keep mosquitoes away and actually enjoy your yard this summer, now’s the time to act—before mosquito season kicks into full swing.

The earlier you start, the faster you stop the bites, the buzzing, and the stress of trying to handle it all on your own.

  • Local.

  • Safe.

  • Proven to work in Iowa’s toughest mosquito months.

Request a treatment with Bobcat Wildlife & Pest Management today—get peace of mind, not bites.

Gene Spaulding Des Moines, IA Branch Operator
About the Author

Gene Spaulding, Owner and Founder of Bobcat Wildlife & Pest Management, has been at the forefront of pest and wildlife control since 2008. With over 17 years of hands-on experience, Gene combines his expertise and passion to deliver effective and humane pest management solutions to homeowners and businesses across the Des Moines Metro area. Guided by the motto “Your Property, Our Priority,” Gene ensures that Bobcat Wildlife & Pest Management remains a trusted partner for comprehensive pest and wildlife services.