An Integrated Approach to Backyard Mosquito Prevention
Mosquitoes can make your yard an unwelcome place to relax or play. Addressing the cultural causes of the pests and using the right tools can solve the problem.
Water Management
Water management is the main tactic for successful mosquito prevention. The pests are drawn to stagnant water, not just to drink, but also to lay eggs. The eggs hatch and the larva develop in the stagnant water, leading to a new generation of bloodsuckers on your property.
Sources of standing water include obvious places like birdbaths, kiddie pools, and water features. These should be drain daily or equipped with a filter and bubbler so that the water is constantly moving instead of sitting stagnant. Less obvious sources of standing water are buckets and planters left out in the garden, old tires, concave areas in lawn furniture, and slow draining areas in the yard. Empty these out or drain them regularly so mosquitoes don't have time to breed.
Environmental Control
Certain landscape designs make mosquito problems more likely. Thick, dense shrubbery and trees that overhang the yard, particularly those overhanging water features or other damp areas, are a mosquitoes dream. The foliage traps humidity and slows air circulation, creating perfect conditions for adult mosquitoes. When not active, the pests can hide on the leaves. Tall grass and brush create similar mosquito-friendly conditions.
Trim grass often to prevent brushy areas in the lawn. Trees and shrubs should also be pruned and thinned out annually so that air circulates more freely around them. Mosquitoes can't fly well in even the slightest breeze, so increased air circulation can help drive the pests away.
Spray Treatment
When mater management and environmental control aren't enough, chemical treatments can save the day. There are treatments that can be placed in water features, many of them pet and wildlife safe, that will kill mosquito larva but harm nothing else.
Mosquito misting and spray systems are another effective option. Your pest control service installs spray emitters and lines in the problem areas, often around the fence line. A mist of mosquito pesticide is sprayed when the pests are most active, usually at and a little after dusk. This kills any mosquitoes nearby at the time. This solution is particularly effective if many of your mosquitoes are flying in from neighboring areas as opposed to originating from within your yard.
Contact a mosquito treatment service in your area for more help with your backyard mosquito problems.