Leaning on backyard botany is a massive shift from how communities used to handle summer pests. Anyone who grew up in the mid-to-late 20th century likely remembers a very different kind of mosquito control: the local “mosquito truck.”

It was a staple of summer evenings. You would hear the loud, mechanical whine of the machine coming down the block, pumping out a thick, sweet-smelling white fog of chemical insecticide. Instead of running inside, neighborhood kids would routinely drop their bicycles and chase directly behind the truck, completely disappearing into the dense, artificial cloud of smoke.

Today, we know a lot more about what was actually in those chemical clouds, and the days of running wild through the pesticide fog have faded into local history. Turning to aromatic backyard plants is a much gentler, entirely non-toxic way to reclaim your patio.

The Catch: Setting Realistic Expectations

While these plants look and smell incredible, simply placing them in a pot on your deck will not create an invisible, bug-proof shield.

How it actually works: The bug-repelling oils remain locked safely inside the plant’s leaves. To actually release the volatile compounds into the air, the foliage typically needs to be crushed, bruised, or rubbed against your skin.

For the best results, use these aromatic plants as a helpful secondary line of defense alongside traditional mosquito control methods, such as eliminating standing water where pests breed.

Hear our follow-up on the proposed solar project in Massac and Johnson Counties Below:

WMOK – Metropolis, IL – The City of Metropolis is gearing up for a historic milestone this summer as it hosts a massive 4th of July Celebration marking America’s 250th Anniversary (1776–2026). Local organizers are currently seeking businesses, organizations, and community members to get involved and participate in what promises to be an unforgettable day of freedom, pride, and community spirit.

The patriotic festivities on July 4th will feature a jam-packed schedule of family-fun activities, vendors, food, and drinks.

Schedule of Events

• Patriotic Parade (6:16 PM): The parade will line up and kick off from 9th and Market Street, traveling down Market to Washington Park.

• Reading of the Declaration of Independence: A formal reading will take place at Washington Park immediately following the conclusion of the parade.

• Live Music (7:30 PM): Washington Park will host a live concert featuring Corey Evitts, sponsored by City National Bank.

Alongside the live music, families at Washington Park can enjoy inflatables, various community activities, and local vendors.

Community members, local groups, and businesses looking to participate in the parade or vendor spaces are encouraged to join in to help make this semiquincentennial landmark event a historic celebration to remember for Metropolis.