Mosquitoes are among the most irritating pests for many people.
Mosquitoes become pests during the warm months of the year throughout the United States. Learning how items in your lawn -- including potted plants -- become mosquito attractants can help you eradicate the problem. Does this Spark an idea?
Mosquito Life Cycle
In many species of mosquito, the female lays her eggs in or on the water or on water vegetation. The eggs, larvae and pupae prefer stagnant or standing water.
Pest Status
To produce viable eggs, the female needs to eat a lot of blood. She will take blood from several sources, thus creating the possibility of spreading diseases. In the United States, West Nile virus is the most severe, although it affects people with weakened or suppressed immune systems. Dogs and horses are susceptible to canine heartworm disease and equine encephalitis (although rare away from the Atlantic Coastal region), respectively.
Potted Plants and Mosquitoes
Potted plants can play the role of an ideal breeding ground and egg site. Consider removing any catch pans under the pots, if possible. Also, don't overwater your potted plants. Pooling water in the soil of the pot can also be a breeding ground. Other common areas for breeding include water troughs, bird baths, old tires or ruts in your lawn.
Tags: breeding ground, Mosquitoes Potted, United States, your lawn