Remember, standing water means mosquitoes. Any standing, stagnant water
that remains for 7 to 10 days after a rain can, and usually will, produce
mosquitoes. For example, one coffee can full of water has been shown to produce
in excess of 10,000 mosquitoes over an entire summer season
Empty all water holding containers in your yard on a regular basis, at
least once a week, children's wading pools, rain barrels, buckets, bird baths
and stored boats are prime examples of mosquito breeding sites.
Over-watering and poor irrigation practices are common producers of
mosquitoes around the home, in parks and on golf courses. Report standing water
to appropriate maintenance personnel.
Clean out eaves troughs and down spouts of leaves and other debris that
slows drainage.
Ditches must be kept free of vegetation and other debris to promote rapid
drainage, and pond edges should be kept clean of cattails and other aquatic
vegetation. This is where mosquito larvae develop and mature. To reduce the
number of adult mosquitoes in your yard:
Keep your lawn mowed as short as is practical.
Keep all ornamental shrubs and bushes trimmed and pruned to open them up to
light and air flow. This will not only give mosquitoes one less place to hide,
but will promote growth and vigor in the plant.
Cut back as far as possible, all low, dense under-growth surrounding your
yard. This is where mosquitoes go to hide during the day.
Have large trees trimmed to allow sunlight to penetrate dark, damp areas.
Plan outdoor activities and parties during daylight hours or later in the
evening. Many mosquitoes are most active at dusk and for about an hour after
dusk.
