Although mosquitos are harmless to plants, they can be harmful to people and put a damper on outdoor living fun. You can help repel and reduce mosquito numbers around your home, making your time outdoors more enjoyable with these 5 strategies:
1) Drain water: Standing water is perfect mosquito breeding habitat. It only takes 6-10 days for mosquito eggs to become adults. Dump out plant saucers and other standing water in kiddie pools, buckets or tires. Refill pet water bowls and bird baths daily.
2) Mosquito Dunks: Mosquito dunks are a donut- shaped biological control that treats standing water. Dunks contain bacteria (bacillus thuringiensis or BT) that targets and kills insect larvae. Mosquito Dunks are useful for ditches, ponds and rain barrels.
3) Reduce Brush: Brush, tall grass and other overgrown vegetation can harbor mosquitoes. Trim and mow these areas periodically.
4) Mosquito Repellant Plants: Include plants that naturally repel mosquitoes into your outdoor living areas. Lemon-scented geranium, lemon balm, lavender, marigolds, catnip, lemon verbena, basil and mint not only deter mosquitoes, but look pretty too.
5) Citronella Candles: Easy to use citronella candles are useful in outdoor dining and living areas and help repel mosquitoes.
Besides the actions described above, it’s always a good idea to wear long, lightweight clothing and use insect repellent during mosquito season.
