Chemical means for warding off biting pests are losing some ground to products made from 100 percent natural fragrances and oils.

As temperatures increase, so do the number of landscape crews. And unfortunately, so too do the number of mosquitos and other biting pests. Besides being an annoyance, many can also transmit dangerous, even deadly afflictions. Controlling the pests through chemical means has been the typical method.

However, using natural fragrances and essential oils, either in the air or on the skin, is gaining in popularity as a way to keep flying, biting pests at bay.

One such product that claims to be a natural pest deterrent is Skeeter Screen oil, a Scents of Nature• solution, which is derived from geraniol and other natural essential oils. It is billed as an environmentally friendly, DEET-free way help prevent biting insects from invading outdoor areas.

The scent, available from scentshop.com, is reported to have the ability to spread up to 200 square feet to help deter mosquitoes, biting flies, gnats and other pests.

Another company, Plantlife, offers four products that they state are 100 percent natural, DEET-free, vegan pest repellents. The products are a soap and two oils for the body, and a candle for outdoor and indoor use.