Everything is shaping up for a horrendous mosquito season. Not
only did we have an unusually long rainy season that lasted well
into much of our spring, but the continued threat of West Nile
virus brings a more serious problem. The fact remains that you
probably have mosquito-breeding sources in your garden right
now
– sources that need to be eliminated.
Everything is shaping up for a horrendous mosquito season. Not only did we have an unusually long rainy season that lasted well into much of our spring, but the continued threat of West Nile virus brings a more serious problem. The fact remains that you probably have mosquito-breeding sources in your garden right now – sources that need to be eliminated.
Did you know, for instance, that mosquitoes can breed in as little as a tablespoon of water? Prime breeding areas around your home and garden are bird baths, garden ponds, containers and saucers that may be laying around – even that used tire you saved for no apparent reason.
I know I had several old saucers collecting water in a junk pile on the side of the house that my wife is always harping at me to clean up. Rain gutters clogged with leaves are yet another hidden source of breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
Mosquitoes are one of the few garden bugs that are more of a problem for the home gardener than the garden itself. They don’t eat plants nor harm the lawn, but that doesn’t make them any less of a pest. Anyone who has been eaten alive by them would certainly vouch for that.
Simple things first: To avoid being a mosquito magnet, avoid wearing dark clothing while in the garden. Also, avoid wearing perfumes or colognes. Wear white and, if you can, avoid breathing. Yes, as silly as it sounds, mosquitoes are attracted to the carbon dioxide, heat and moisture that is generated from breathing!
When you do work in the garden, try to avoid working at dawn or dusk, which are the prime times when mosquitoes come biting. If you are out in the garden during those times, try to wear long pants and long-sleeved shirts. When you are in the garden, apply insect repellent according to label instructions. Products containing DEET have been shown to last longer than other products. It’s usually best to apply to clothing rather than skin. Avoid using DEET products on synthetic materials, such as nylon, because DEET will melt them! Also, I’ve had mixed success using Avon’s Skin So Soft as a repellent.
Speaking of other products, popular citronella candles that you can get at almost any store have had mixed results. Although it has been found that citronella oil, which comes from the citrosa plant, can help deter mosquitoes, studies also say that one must stay within the smoky plume of those candles to get any prevention.
The most sensible idea I picked up during this discussion on mosquito deterrents was to place water in a white dinner plate and add a couple drops of lemon fresh Joy dishwashing soap. It is said to be a great mosquito trap and killer.
Fight the bite, and act accordingly.
