Between Florida’s hot, humid climate and the abundance of standing water, mosquitoes don’t need much of an invitation to invade people’s yards. In fact, the Sunshine State is pretty much a mosquito’s paradise. We’re in the peak summer season now, but mosquitoes can remain active well into fall due to the warm weather. Here’s what to do to protect your home when mosquitoes are buzzing:
Eliminate Standing Water
First things first, eliminate sources of standing water. Mosquitoes are attracted to standing water because it’s where they lay their eggs. This makes any standing water a literal breeding ground for these buzzing pests. Take a walk around your yard and look for anything that collects water, including flower pots, bird baths, tarps and clogged gutters. Clearing these areas of standing water regularly is one of the most effective ways to keep mosquitoes at bay.
Clean Up Your Yard
Mosquitoes like to rest in moist, shady areas, like tall grass and overgrown shrubs. They can spend many hours a day in these spots, which is why you want to make sure your yard is well manicured. Keep your grass short, bushes trimmed and landscaping tidy to ensure you’re not giving mosquitoes any places to hang out. Pay special attention to overgrown vegetation near your fence, foundation, doors and windows.
Install Screens or Hang Mosquito Nets
If mosquitoes are always crashing your backyard barbecues, try placing physical barriers around your patio or outdoor living spaces. Mosquito nets are a quick and affordable option, although some people don’t find them visually appealing. Installing a screen is another great option that looks nicer, but it may cost more and take longer. If you don’t mind the cost, screens are often well worth the investment in Florida because they prevent mosquitoes and other pests from getting in. If you already have mosquito nets or screened-in areas around your home, ensure they’re in good condition and free of rips.
Use Natural Repellents
If you’re looking for a low-maintenance, chemical-free way to deter mosquitoes, plants can do a surprising amount of heavy lifting. Flowers and herbs like lavender, citronella, lemongrass, basil, and marigolds are easy to grow in Florida and are well-known for repelling mosquitoes. Mosquitoes find the strong scents from these plants extremely unpleasant, and they’ll often avoid areas where they’re present. You can place them in pots or plant them around your front entryway, patio and garden, making your yard less inviting and giving your home a natural line of defense.
Call the Pros for Help
When all else fails and DIY measures just aren’t enough to keep up with the mosquitoes in Florida, professional mosquito control is the way to go. Licensed teams have the knowledge and tools needed to assess your property, identify attractants and apply targeted treatments to address the problem. They also have a responsibility to do so in a way that’s safe for your family, pets and the environment. Having regular pest maintenance from a trusted team can make all the difference when mosquito season is at its peak.
Are mosquitoes making it impossible to enjoy your outdoor space? AAA Pest Control is here with professional Fort Lauderdale mosquito control services to help you get rid of these buzzing invaders and prevent them from coming back. Contact us online today for a free inspection, or call (954) 771-3400 for emergency pest control services.