Q: This is not a question about plants, but I thought you might know the answer. We enjoy sitting on the patio but havenβt been able to for several weeks. The problem is weβre out there for just a few minutes, and then our ankles and feet start to itch like crazy. I have sprayed the deck, but that hasnβt seemed to help.
A:Β Mosquitoes are fairly common ankle biters this time of year. While there are landscape sprays you can use for short-term effect, I recommend you use an insect repellent on your legs to see if that stops or at least mitigates the problem. The most effective repellents are those that contain the active ingredient DEET.
Peter L. Warren is the urban horticulture agent for the Pima County Cooperative Extension and the University of Arizona. Questions may be emailed toΒ tucsongardensage@gmail.com
