Mosquito Control in Your Home and Garden
Mosquitoes are one of the most widespread insect pests known to man. In fact, one type or another can be found on every continent except Antarctica. And while we've all experienced the itchy results of mosquito bites, these pesky insects are often more than a nuisance. In some areas, their bite can transmit dangerous diseases like Eastern equine encephalitis and West Nile virus. While mosquitoes can probably never be completely eliminated, they can be effectively controlled. Here are ways to minimize mosquitoes in your home and garden:
Eliminate breeding spots. Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. The eggs hatch into small "wiggler larvae" which are visible to the naked eye. The larvae pupate into flying adults, usually within 10 to 14 days. In many lakes, ponds and streams, predators like fish and other insects feed on the larvae and keep mosquito populations to a minimum. But around your home and neighborhood, even the smallest puddle or container of standing water can be a serious breeding ground for mosquitoes. So do everything you can to empty them. Look for water in old tires, small toys, tarps or pieces of plastic, clogged rain gutters, low spots, and in trays under potted plants. If possible, rearrange or move items so water won't recollect, or check again after it rains. Fill low spots with soil. Change water in birdbaths or fountains once a week.
Control larvae. There are several ways to control mosquito larvae in small ponds, water gardens and other places where the water can't be emptied regularly. They include introducing mosquito fish, which feed on larvae, or a nontoxic form of Bt (a bacteria), which also kills the larvae. For more information, contact your local mosquito control district or health department.
Keep pools and spas chlorinated. Also, don't allow water to collect on pool or spa covers.
Use mosquito repellants or protective clothing when necessary. Be sure to read and follow label directions.
Install yellow "bug lights" outdoors. Some mosquitoes are attracted to light.
Double-check screens. Make sure all doors and windows are sealed tightly so mosquitoes can't get indoors.
Treat lawns and gardens. Use Bayer Advanced™ PowerForce® Multi-Insect Killer Granules in either its liquid or granular form. Applied on paving, tall grass or weeds, along foundations and beneath shrubs, Bayer Advanced™ Multi-Insect Killer will kill adult mosquitoes when they land. Follow label instructions carefully and don't spray on water. You'll get the best results if you spray during cooler parts of the day, such as evening or early morning.
If mosquitoes continue to be a problem, contact your local mosquito control district or health department. For more information on mosquitoes and mosquito control see the American Mosquito Control Association Web site at www.mosquito.org.
Products Mentioned In This Article
Bayer Advanced
