How to Get Rid of Midges from Your Garden

How to Get Rid of Midges from Your Garden

Midges can turn a peaceful summer evening in your garden into a frustrating experience. These tiny flying insects are known for their biting nuisance, especially during warm, damp weather common in many parts of the UK. While midges are a natural part of the ecosystem and serve as food for birds and other wildlife, there are ways to reduce their presence and enjoy your garden more comfortably.

Understanding Midges

Midges are small, mosquito-like insects that often appear in large swarms near water sources such as ponds, rivers or damp soil. Only female midges bite, seeking blood to help nourish their eggs. They are most active at dawn and dusk and tend to be more prevalent in the summer months.

Remove Breeding Grounds

Since midges breed in damp, stagnant water and moist soil, eliminating these breeding sites is crucial. Regularly check your garden for areas where water collects, such as plant saucers, clogged gutters, or puddles, and drain or empty them. Ensure ponds have circulation or add aeration to reduce stagnant water.

Using pond fish that feed on midge larvae, such as goldfish or sticklebacks, can naturally control populations in water features.

Use Physical Barriers and Repellents

Outdoor netting or screens around seating areas provide a direct physical barrier against midges. Wearing loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing and using natural insect repellents containing citronella, eucalyptus or lavender oils can reduce bites.

Citronella candles or torches also help keep midges away from patios or decks.

Plant Midge-Repelling Plants

Certain plants are believed to repel midges thanks to their strong scents. Lavender, rosemary, mint and marigolds can be planted near outdoor seating areas or pots to discourage midges naturally.

Encourage Natural Predators

Bats, swallows and some species of dragonflies feed on midges and other flying insects. Providing bat boxes or bird feeders encourages these natural predators to visit your garden, helping control midge numbers.

Avoid Overwatering

Overwatering plants can create the moist conditions midges love. Water your garden thoughtfully, allowing soil to dry between watering to minimise midge-friendly environments.

Final Thoughts

While it is impossible to completely eliminate midges from your garden, combining good garden hygiene with physical barriers, natural repellents and wildlife encouragement can significantly reduce their impact. With these strategies, you can enjoy your outdoor space with fewer bites and less buzzing.