Mosquiotes in the yard can make outdoor recreation miserable.
A method for controlling mosquitoes in the yard is something that many homeowners wish for each summer mosquito season. Mosquitoes can make outdoor recreational time difficult because of the annoying, itchy bites they inflict. Some types of mosquitoes may carry serious diseases like West Nile Virus. Controlling mosquitoes can be difficult, however there are steps homeowners can take to prevent mosquito breeding and keep them at bay. Does this Spark an idea?
Homemade Mosquito Treatments
According to the Thrifty Fun website, homeowners who are concerned about using chemicals to treat a mosquito infestation can make a homemade treatment. Mix together equal parts flat beer, mouthwash and Epsom salts in an empty milk jug. Allow the Epsom salts to dissolve completely. Transfer the mixture into a spray bottle with a hose attachment. Spray the perimeter of the yard, any areas where mosquitoes seem to collect and areas with standing water. Repeat after heavy rainfall and once a month throughout the summer.
Mosquito and Garlic Barriers
The Extremely Green website recommends using a combination of a mosquito barrier product and a garlic barrier product. These products can be found at many pest-control supply stores. Mix 1.25 ounces of mosquito and garlic barriers with one gallon of water. Add 1.25 ounces of canola or soy bean oil and ½ teaspoon of liquid dishwashing soap. These products help the barrier mixture stick to plants where adult mosquitoes may hide. Spray the garden, foliage and any areas of the yard where mosquitoes may gather. Treat areas where water collects as these are popular mosquito breeding grounds. Avoiding using this mixture on plants that require bee pollination as mosquitoes barriers have also been known to repel bees.
Mosquito Larvicide
Mosquito larvicides are other products that may be useful yard treatments, according to the Extremely Green website. Like barrier products, larvicides can be purchased from pest-control companies. Mix larvicide with water, according to the directions on the product. Spray areas prone to flooding and where water collects in the yard. The larvicide is designed to kill mosquitoes larvae and pupa before they become adult, biting mosquitoes.
Yard Maintenance
Another way homeowners can help keep mosquitoes out of the yard is to keep the yard free from areas where mosquitoes like to breed. Remove old tires, barrels and any product which may collect water in the yard. Dump water from trash cans, boats, wheelbarrows and other yard equipment. According to the University of Kentucky, homeowners should fill in ditches and soil depressions. In yards with boggy and swampy areas, consider putting in an irrigation system to help prevent standing water.
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