1) Eliminate Habitat

The best way to eliminate mosquitoes is to get rid of their breeding habitats. Mosquitoes look for any standing water to lay their eggs and most backyards have a variety of sites where they can flourish. Check your yard frequently for anything that could hold water. Below are some of the common mosquito-breeding locations along with solutions:

  • Landscape Ponds
  • Bird Baths
  • Old Tires
  • Buckets
  • Tarps
  • Tree Holes
  • Clogged Gutters
  • Neglected Pools
  • Rain barrels
  • Low Spots

2) Treat for Larva

For water that you cannot eliminate like a landscape pond or small wetland, consider purchasing larval control materials to reduce mosquito larvae. Most home improvement stores offer larval control in the form of dunks, pellets, or bits. Larval control materials are usually dry and should be applied to a wetland according to the label. Remember, not all wetlands will contain mosquito larvae - if your pond is deep with only a thin band of cattails around the edge, it probably does not need to be treated.

When you purchase larval control materials, here is what you should look for:

  • BTI
  • Methoprene

3) Make Physical Barriers

One of the simplest ways to reduce mosquito annoyance is to make physical adjustments to your yard or seating areas to reduce the likelihood that they will come near people.

  • Here are some ways to do that:
    • Keep grass short and reduce overgrown shrubs
    • Check screens, create barriers, and turn on a fan
    • Mosquito traps and natural predators

4) Treat Adult Mosquitoes

Some species of adult mosquitoes can travel for miles, so sometimes controlling and eliminating larvae is not enough. Adult mosquitoes can be controlled using a few different do-it-yourself methods, but keep in mind most of these products >are risky and could cause harm to non-target insect species if not applied according to the instructions on the label. Because most urban and suburban yards will not need adult mosquito control, we are not listing specific products, but feel free to call us if you need advice on treating your property.

  • Use a Backpack or hand pump sprayer for residual treatment
  • Use a fogger for a quick knock down
  • Call the mosquito control district

5) Wear Protective Clothing

The most effective way to avoid getting bitten by mosquitoes is to protect yourself, your kids, and your pets because these methods will remain effective even when you leave your yard. Before venturing out to go hiking, camping, or just to enjoy your deck on a summer evening, we recommend you take the following steps

  • Pre-Treat Clothing and Gear with Permethrin
  • Wear Long, Loose, Light Clothing and avoid scents
  • Avoid being outdoors at dusk and dawn