In the US, we have roughly 200 different mosquito species. Unfortunately, these flying pests can carry the West Nile virus, Dengue, Yellow fever, Zika virus, and more. In the US West Nile virus is the most common mosquito-borne illness. You can protect your family with a few tips to enhance outdoor mosquito control.
Female mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water. Eggs hatch into larvae approximately three days later. Twelve days after that, adults emerge and fly away to continue this cycle. Each female could lay up to 400 eggs, and the life cycle is complete in about 12 days. You can see how mosquito populations increase so rapidly.
Reducing the quantity of standing water around your home will minimize potential breeding sites, help reduce the populations, and aid in controlling mosquitoes. Some places to look include blocked gutters, old tires, pet bowls, old wheel barrels, bird baths, and ditches.
If you have standing water you want to keep, such as a birdbath, one option is to switch the water once a week. If your home has a water garden or pond, you can add a Surface Aerator or a fountain to create motion in the water. This option allows you to enhance the natural beauty of your yard while offering backyard mosquito control. Not only does this addition discourage egg-laying, but it also improves your pond’s natural beauty and helps control algae buildup.
Decorate your landscape while repelling mosquitoes in your yard. Add mosquito-deterring plants, flowers, or herbs to your garden. Citronella, Lavender, and Marigolds are just a few plants that offer mosquito control for yards.
Did you know mosquitoes are more attracted to about 20% of the human population? A US study found that some female mosquitoes are predisposed toward particular individuals over others. Heightened attraction is determined by differences in chemicals generated by some human bodies and mosquitoes’ recognition.
Don’t forget to ask your neighbors to help now that you know how to control mosquitoes. An adult mosquito can fly up to two miles from its breeding site. So get your neighbors on board!
Now you know how to control mosquitoes in your yard so let’s work together and take back your outdoor living space.
Protect your family and pests from mosquito-borne diseases like West Nile, Dengue, and Zika.
