There are plenty of wrong ways to try to zap mosquitoes. Here are the ways that work
Mosquitoes can quickly ruin an outing with their irritating bites. Getting the upper hand on this pest can be difficult. Understanding their habits can help fight against the bite and provide a sense of protection while enjoying the great outdoors.
Mosquitoes go through four life stages: egg, larvae, pupa and adult. The goal is to eliminate them before they become the biting adult stage. Unfortunately, there is no easy solution for control. The best management strategy is a combination of solutions to reduce getting bit.
The most effective way to reduce populations is to eliminate breeding and egg-laying sites as well as standing water. Mosquitoes tend not to travel long distances and stay near breeding sites. A neglected bird bath, old bucket, pot, clogged gutter or standing water make the perfect spot for laying eggs and becoming adults.
The life cycle from egg to adult can be about a week. Removing standing water frequently and draining and cleaning bird baths regularly are important.
Standing water, such as fountains and pools of water, can be treated with a larvicide. Referred to as Mosquito Dunks, they contain several active ingredients which disrupt the life cycle preventing adults from emerging and biting. They are low-cost, safe for humans and animals, and can last about 30 days.
Controlling the adult stage is more difficult. Female mosquitoes bite as they generally require a blood meal before laying fertile eggs in standing water. Males feed on nectar and plant juices and do not bite.
Females are most active in the evening but can be out in force any time of the day, especially on calm days. Protect yourself by wearing long sleeves and pants to cover the skin. Mosquito repellents can be used to fend off biting. Products containing DEET or other chemicals are highly effective and longer lasting. The higher the chemical percentage, the longer they last.
Non-chemical products such as oils and lotions may provide some benefits but last a short time and must be reapplied often.
Sprays can be used to cover surfaces where mosquitoes rest, such as sides of homes, under decks, tall grass, shrubs and trees. These sprays have their advantages and disadvantages. They can help reduce the numbers in a localized area and can help suppress numbers for up to a month.
The main disadvantage of fogging the yard is the effect on other species of insects. These applications will kill beneficial organisms such as butterflies, pollinators and predatory insects. The other concern is that long-term use can cause some mosquitoes to develop resistance to insecticides.
Mosquito traps, bug zappers or ovitraps are not effective at controlling mosquitoes. Citronella oil and candles have repelling properties and provide a degree of protection but are not highly effective. Candles must be within a few feet of where people are sitting. A candle in the center of the patio table will provide little benefit. A fan moving the air may be more helpful for a patio party.
The control steps are eliminating the breeding sites and using personal protection. These methods are the most effective and do not harm beneficial insects.
Dennis Patton is a horticulture agent with Kansas State University Research and Extension. Need help? Contact the Johnson County Extension gardening hotline at 913-715-7050 or email garden.help@jocogov.org. The Kansas Garden Guide, your one-stop vegetable resource, has just been updated. Find your copy by going to ksre.k-state.edu and searching Kansas Garden Guide.
This story was originally published May 12, 2023 at 6:00 AM.