Britons are being given tips on how to keep creepy crawlies out of their garden rooms and outdoor entertaining spaces.
The outdoor living experts at GardenBuildingsDirect.co.uk have put together advice for those wanting to keep bugs at bay.
They suggest keeping garden rooms clean and tidy and decluttering to make it easier to spot any creepy crawlies.
Wasps are among some of the most troublesome and common insects in garden rooms, especially in the spring and summer months, but a few simple updates can help keep them out.
Regular maintenance, both internally and externally, are important. Sealing any gaps will keep unwelcome guests out, as well cutting back foliage around the outdoor building.
Other advice includes opting for plants insects dislike including lavender and lemongrass and using natural repellents.
A spokesperson for GardenBuildingsDirect.co.uk said: “Insects are important for maintaining healthy ecosystems, acting as pollinators and food sources for other animals. But having them buzzing around your garden room isn’t ideal.
“We’ve put together some tips to help deter the bugs without harming them, including using natural repellents and keeping spaces clean and tidy.
“With a few simple changes, you can enjoy bug free spaces this spring and summer.”
Here are GardenBuildingDirect.co.uk’s tips for keeping insects out of garden rooms.
Keep it tidy
Bugs are attracted to food and cluttered spaces, so keeping the room clean and tidy will help keep creepy crawlies at bay. Sweep the floors, especially if you eat in your summer house and garden room and wipe down surfaces.
Declutter
If your garden room is full to bursting, be ruthless and declutter. By cutting the clutter, you’ll make it easier to spot any bug problems.
Seal entry points
Check windows and doors for any gaps. Where you can fill them in, do. For doors, think about installing an insect screen to let fresh air in and keep the bugs out.
Trim plants and branches
Trimming trees and bushes from the exterior of your garden room or summerhouse will help keep bugs out. Overhanging branches and foliage can act as a bridge for insects to get in.
Keep food covered
If you enjoy eating in your garden room, keep food covered until you’re ready to eat. Bugs are attracted to food.
Natural repellents
Essential oils including citronella, eucalyptus, lavender and peppermint all deter bugs. Try these if entertaining in your outside room as scented candles or diffusers.
Bug free planting
Think about planting around your garden rooms too. Potted lavender can be an eyecatching and beautifully scented choice by the doors of your garden room. Other plants to try include lemongrass, basil, mint and rosemary.
Move the bins
If you store bins close to your summerhouse or garden room, move them. Bins will attract creepy crawlies.
Add a wasp trap
Sticky, scented wasp traps aren’t expensive and they’re quite effective at catching any flying insects which have found their way inside your building. Some can sit on a tabletop, while others can be hung from the ceiling. Just make sure to remove them once they’ve done the job, otherwise they’ll keep attracting more bugs.
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