Mosquito Control
It was another very wet spring in many parts of the country, and mosquito populations are expected to skyrocket. Now is a good time to review mosquito-control measures.
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 re-collect, or check again after it rains. Fill low spots with soil. Change water in birdbaths or fountains once a week.
Control larvae. Controlling mosquito larvae in small ponds, water gardens and other places where the water can't be emptied regularly will reduce numbers of adults. Use Bayer Advanced™ Mosquito Preventer Granules which includes a form of Bti (a bacteria), which kills mosquito larvae without harming fish or other animals.
Keep pools and spas chlorinated. Also, don't allow water to collect on pool or spa covers.
Use mosquito repellents or protective clothing when necessary. Be sure to read and follow label directions. For more information on mosquito repellents, visit the West Nile Virus section of the Bayer Advanced™ Web site.
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™ Mosquito Killer Concentrate. Applied on plants, lawns, paving, tall grass or weeds, along foundations and beneath shrubs, Bayer Advanced™ Mosquito Killer Concentrate will kill adult mosquitoes on contact and when they land. It won't be washed off by rain and lasts for weeks.
Bayer Advanced™ Mosquito Killer Plus Outdoor Fogger kills and repels mosquitoes and other pests. Besides killing mosquitoes, it also helps control other flying insects including gnats, flies and hornets.
You'll get the best results if you spray during cooler parts of the day, such as evening or early morning. Follow label instructions carefully.
If mosquitoes continue to be a problem, contact your local mosquito-control district or health department. For more information on mosquitoes and mosquito control, visit the West Nile Virus section of the Bayer Advanced Web site.
Controlling Moss and Algae
Moss or algae growing in your lawn and garden, or on walkways, sides or roof of your home is a symptom of a problem with one or more causes. Heavy shade and poor air circulation are the usual culprits. But heavy rain, excess irrigation, poor drainage or compacted soil, a heavy layer of thatch in your lawn, or pH and nutrient imbalances in your soil can also play an important role in garden situations. Pruning trees to increase sunlight, having your soil tested and altering cultural practices will help prevent moss and algae over the long run, but there is a faster solution.
Bayer Advanced™ 2-in-1 Moss and Algae Killer Ready-To-Spray is a fast-acting moss, algae and lichen killer which can be applied to lawns and ornamental gardens, around and on homes and other buildings, and home greenhouses. It may also be applied to roofs; cedar shakes and composition shingles; cedar siding; stucco; cedar, redwood and CCA-treated wood decks and fences; brick, stone and concrete walkways, sidewalks and driveways; growing containers; other structural surfaces; hardened bark of trees; bark mulch; pavement; gravel; patios; asphalt; automobile exteriors; and the exteriors of motor homes and boats.
On wood, concrete and asphalt, a single application of Bayer Advanced™ 2-in-1 Moss and Algae Killer Ready-To-Spray will control moss and algae for several months to one year. It will not stain concrete, pavement, stucco or wood.
Products Mentioned In This Article
Bayer Advanced
