Summer means sunshine, relaxation and backyard barbecues. But it also means the return of insect season. Homeowners work hard on their backyards, but the nuisance of pesky flying insects often prevent them from enjoying their yards as much as possible.

Not only are insects annoying, they can be dangerous too. Stinging insects send over 500,000 people to the emergency room each year and an estimated two million Americans are allergic to insect stings.

Don't let bugs keep you from relaxing outdoors. Use these tips to take back your yard from annoying pests.

Eat more garlic: Garlic is heralded for its ability to ward off bloodsucking vampires; but did you know eating garlic can repel bloodsucking insects as well? Garlic is excreted through the pores and acts as a natural barrier to flying insects who don't like the smell.

Eliminate Dangerous Flying Insects: The key to insect control is early detection and elimination. Consider using traps to eliminate bothersome bugs. Not all traps are eyesores. For example, the Black Flag Flying Insect Trap and Lure attracts, traps and kills wasps, yellow jackets and flies and can be hung in a tree or staked in the ground, discreetly blending into any outdoor setting. It's also safe for your family and pets. More information is available at www.blackflag.com.

Wear proper clothes: Bees, wasps and yellow jackets are attracted to bright colors and floral patterns. The color black also tends to irritate the insects. Wear light colors such as khaki, beige or white to avoid being stung.

Grow plants and herbs: Certain plants and herbs, such as rosemary, basil and thyme, emit odors that ward off insects. Not only will these plants help deter unwanted pests, you'll also have some fresh herbs ready for cooking right in your backyard.