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If you have turned your backyard into a refuge during the quarantine in the past year, you are likely to cherish it as well this summer. 

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Since this outdoor space is your summer memory, the last thing you want to think about is the invasive insects you may encounter-ticks, mosquitoes, flying insects, oh my goodness. Not only are they annoying to deal with, but they can also cause you to develop serious diseases such as EEE and Lyme disease. 

Insecticides are the first choice of many homeowners, and they have pros and cons. Spraying your yard with pesticides before the golden season is an effective preventive measure. Derek Gaughan, the founder of Bug Lord, recommends using products containing the active ingredient bifenthrin; this is an insecticide that can fight a variety of backyard bugs, including ticks, ants, flies and mosquitoes.

That being said, many homeowners (especially those with children) want to avoid exposure to harmful chemicals and toxins. Some pesticides are also considered toxic to cats and dogs. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, there are environmental reasons for avoiding the use of pesticides, including harm to pollinators such as birds, fish, aquatic invertebrates, and bees.

Whether you choose to use insecticides or not, there are many other ways to attack these pests. There are several ways to keep mosquitoes, ticks, and other insects away from your outdoor shelter.

If insecticides are not for you, or you are looking for other deworming strategies, then some high-tech products may make a difference.

Try an outdoor insect killer. These don't emit any smell or sound; instead, they work by attracting insects to ultraviolet light and then electrocuting them. In the right environment, Zappers can play a role. 

"The only downside is that they only really work at night," Gaughan said. "If you have competing light sources, such as street lights or porch lights, they will not be as effective."

Gaughan suggested looking for an insect exterminator with ultraviolet light, which makes it the most effective way to attract the surrounding insects. Dynatrap's stylish fly trap can be easily integrated into a terrace or deck, and it will passively emit carbon dioxide to attract more insects.

Unlike the insect repellent, the fuel-driven insect repellent burns the insect repellent into the air once the power is turned on. This flameless Thermacell insect repellent can protect up to 15 feet with a silent, chemical-free insect repellent, making it ideal for relaxing in small outdoor spaces.

If your terrace or deck is decorated with flashing strings of lights, you may need to reconsider the light bulbs you use. There is no doubt that bugs will be attracted by the light source anyway, but compared to other styles, this is especially true for bright and hot lights. 

Gaughan recommends replacing any traditional incandescent bulbs with warm-colored LEDs (such as orange or yellow). These outdoor LED light strings are warmer than incandescent lamps. 

Whether they are urban residents or rural residents, most consumers have used citronella candles in outdoor spaces. These are a simple and affordable option, and although these candles are not as powerful as insecticides or insecticides, they are a more atmospheric option that can seamlessly blend with your outdoor decoration. 

This gorgeous soy wax citronella candle sold on Amazon burns with green citrus and a fresh and clean fragrance. Each has a burning time of 26-30 hours. To get the maximum and wide-ranging effects of citronella, try buying a large pack of citronella tea candles.

Another more natural option for lemongrass is to plant citronella plants in outdoor spaces, whether you plant some annual plants in pots or plant them around the courtyard.

You can use the patio fence to keep bugs out of your patio paradise. These are usually constructed with mesh screens to keep out bugs while still allowing sunlight or moonlight and cool breeze to flow through.

For those who don't want to build a fence in the backyard, this pop-up pavilion is the perfect portable option. For something longer lasting, this aluminum patio enclosure has sliding doors and windows for easy access to the rest of your outdoor space. 

For more customized things, work with contractors and even consider a DIY route to build a patio screen cover for your backyard. Fiberglass shields like this can prevent insects and mosquitoes from entering, and can be self-installed. 

One of the best ways to prevent bugs from entering is to tidy up what is already in the outdoor area. "Preventive maintenance is the best insect repellent," Gao En said.

Mosquitoes like stagnant water, so the most common insect attraction is outdoor potted plants—especially any plant drain pans that may accumulate water. 

The same goes for your trash can. These are attractive hot spots for bugs and pests, so make sure your trash can is covered tightly to avoid any intruders wandering in. 

Finally, Gaughan says that keeping a clean and well-maintained lawn is a miracle against mosquitoes, fleas and ticks. Don't let the grass grow in a mess-keep it short to minimize weeds and plant clutter.

To protect yourself from hum and bites, you need a personal insect spray. 

Gaughan recommends the use of DEET repellent spray, which the Environmental Protection Agency says will not "cause health problems" to humans. Ben claims to provide 10 hours of protection against ticks and mosquito bites.

For a more natural solution, consider using plant-based insect repellents, such as lemon eucalyptus oil. Gaughan recommends a spray like Repel-it does not contain DEET, provides protection, and does not feel sticky or greasy. 

Try Avon’s Skin So Soft bath oil, which is a mom’s favorite. It also has an interesting origin story as an insect repellent-because it shouldn't be one. Bath oils are well received in terms of repelling mosquitoes.

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