Midges will stay away if you use these type of lights in the garden this summer

Daily Record

18-06-2025

The dreaded midge is a blight on warmer nights in Scotland. But a simple tip can keep them away from your outdoor space
We've all been there. Trying to relax or entertain in the garden on a warm summer's evening only to be eaten alive by the notorious midge who seem set on destroying any outdoor fun at this time of year. These pesky critters are most active between May and September but can ramp up their assault on the population in July and August.
It means enjoying an evening in the garden can be problematic for householders as they swarm and bite. Our damper climate and long summer evenings are the perfect playground for midges which are prevalent across the west coast and in the Highlands.
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The Scottish Midge Forecast shows there are currently high levels of midge around the Glencoe are of the country with Fort William also seeing large numbers.
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But there is plenty of time and good weather on the horizon to allow them to do their worst.
Experts are now recommending that installing a certain type of light in gardens could be the answer to keeping them at bay.
Unlike mosquitoes, midge bites are not dangerous but most Scots have tried various ways to keep the pesky pests, the most infamous being the Highland Midge, at bay.
They are most active at dawn and again at dusk and particularly when the weather is still and humid.
Attracted to carbon dioxide, body heat and sweat, they gather in large swarms around people and animals.
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Jon Saeed, managing director of Lighting Legends, said the choice of lighting in your garden is key.
Cooler white or blue lights will attract midges more than warmer yellow or orange tones. Switching to garden lighting with a colour temperature between 2,200K and 2,700K can help reduce their presence.
Jon said: 'Swarming midges are a summer reality for many families across Scotland, particularly in rural and lochside areas where damp conditions are common.
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'These tiny insects are most active during the cooler hours of early morning and evening, often arriving in thick swarms that can quickly spoil outdoor gatherings and make enjoying the garden a challenge.
'Simple changes can make a big difference. Choosing warm-toned lighting with a lower colour temperature - around 2,200K to 2,700K - helps reduce the attraction of midges to outdoor spaces.
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'Practical steps such as keeping the garden tidy and creating gentle airflow with fans can also significantly improve comfort during those peak midge times.'
And he has highlighted seven other ways to reduce a midge invasion in your garden this summer.
Seven ways to deter the dreaded midge from your garden
1. Reduce damp soil and vegetation
Unlike mosquitoes, midges lay eggs in damp soil and decaying plant matter rather than standing water. Keeping garden beds tidy, improving drainage, and removing leaf litter, mossy patches, or rotting vegetation can help disrupt breeding grounds and make the area less appealing to swarms.
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2. Set up fans or choose breezy areas
Midges are weak fliers and avoid even light wind. Setting up garden fans or seating areas in naturally breezy spots can provide an effective barrier, especially during peak midge times in the early morning and evening.
3. Wear insect-repellent treated clothing and use topical repellents
For areas with high midge activity, wearing long sleeves and trousers treated with insect repellent can help prevent bites. DEET-based sprays are commonly recommended, but natural alternatives like citronella or lemon eucalyptus can also offer protection when reapplied regularly.
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4. Avoid outdoor activities at dawn and dusk
Midges are most active at sunrise and sunset, when conditions are cool and still. Where possible, avoid sitting out during these peak hours and plan garden activities for midday, when midge numbers tend to drop.
5. Maintain garden hygiene
Overgrown areas and piles of damp leaves, grass cuttings or mulch create perfect conditions for midges. Regularly mowing lawns, trimming back bushes, and keeping the garden clear of organic debris helps reduce suitable habitats and limits breeding spots.
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6. Encourage natural predators
Birds, bats, and dragonflies feed on midges and can provide natural population control. Installing bird feeders, bat boxes, and small water features encourages these helpful species to visit and stay in the garden.
7. Consider mosquito and midge traps
Some electric traps emit carbon dioxide and warmth to mimic human scent and body heat, attracting and killing midges. While results can vary depending on placement and model, they can be a useful addition for gardens in high-risk areas.