Around the yard, any vessel that holds water should be turned upside down to prevent water accumulation, or removed and recycled.
Birdbaths should be cleaned out weekly and replenished with fresh water; this will prevent mosquito development.
To control their breeding, drain or flush the water weekly in wading pools, roof gutters, flowerpot saucers, and other spots where rain and irrigation water collect.
Trim shrubbery and eliminate tall grass and weeds where adult mosquitoes hide during the day.
For personal protection (1) Wear light-colored clothing when outside, because dark colors attract mosquitoes. (2) Stay indoors at dawn and dusk, when mosquitoes are usually most active. (3) Wear a repellent containing DEET and treat clothing with a product such as Permanone mosquito repellent (containing permethrin). Herbal repellents work for less than 1 hour.
If using citronella candles, orient them so that the breeze is directing the candle smoke toward you; the smoke is what repels mosquitoes.
Mosquito plants do not repel mosquitoes. Garlic does not repel mosquitoes. Ultrasonic devices do not repel mosquitoes. Herbal bracelets do not repel mosquitoes.
Traps that use light and/or carbon dioxide to lure in mosquitoes may attract more mosquitoes than they kill. If you decide to use one of these, consider buying one and giving it to your neighbor down the street.
For severe infestations, hiring a professional pest control company with expertise in mosquito control is an option. Vector control personnel often treat breeding areas with a low-toxicity pesticide called Bti (Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis). It is deadly to mosquito larvae yet harmless to people, pets, fish and wildlife.
For homeowners, there are also several options for mosquito control. Some of these include: Agnique, Altosid, Bactimos, Mosquito Dunks and Mosquito Bits. These are available in many lawn and garden retailers, as well as in some hardware stores.
Billy Skaggs, Agricultural Agent
Hall County Extension Coordinator
734 East Crescent Drive
Gainesville, GA 30501
Phone:(770)531-6988
Fax: (770)531-3994
Email: [email protected]
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