Back Off, Bloodsuckers

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Scientists predict that mosquitoes, particularly the species that spread the West Nile virus, will attack in record numbers this summer due to an unusually warm winter. While there are lots of gimmicky products claiming to attack, zap, and nuke the little vampires into oblivion, we've got some low-cost and simple solutions that'll leave you with plenty of time and money to tend instead to the pleasantries of the season.

? Stock a lily pond with goldfish that feed on mosquito larvae, suggests the Environmental Protection Agency.

? Replace outdoor bulbs with yellow bug lights, which insects have trouble seeing, to discourage them from swarming.

? Repair leaky outdoor faucets to keep drips from creating puddles of standing water.

? Mow tall grasses and clear weedy patches where the bugs linger.

? Crush marigold leaves and petals between your fingers and rub the oil extract on your skin for a mild repellent, says Joseph Conlon of the American Mosquito Control Association.

? Toss rosemary or sage onto the burning coals in your grill to act as a repellent (and add flavor to your steaks).

? Change water in bird baths at least twice a week to prevent mosquitoes from laying eggs, according to The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services.

? Check the plastic tarps slung over your firewood and boat covers for collected rainwater.

? Keep trees and shrubs well pruned to bring summer sun and breezes into your yard says TOH landscape contractor Roger Cook. Mosquitoes love shade and loathe wind.

? Irrigate grass and garden beds early in the morning so leftover water can evaporate instead of pooling in your lawn.

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