Warmer months in the Greater Toronto area are just around the corner, which means you can expect mosquitoes everywhere. If you’re tired of swatting and dealing with those pesky little insects every summer, this post is for you.
We will discuss the impact of mosquitoes on people, pets, and even your lawn and list effective ways to get rid of those unwanted pests for good.
5 Ways Mosquitoes Can Harm You, Your Pets, and Your Lawn
Believe it or not, mosquitoes are good for the environment. They act as pollinators, helping thousands of plant species to multiply. They also play a crucial role in the survival of many insects, birds, and fish, among many others.
But mosquitoes can be a problem when they are on your property (and your skin). Here are a few ways these pests impact people, pets, and even lawns.
Mosquitoes Are a Nuisance
Imagine spending a beautiful summer evening outdoors and enjoying a barbecue with friends on your lawn when a swarm of mosquitoes suddenly descends upon you. Despite your efforts to ward them off, the persistent pests ruin the peaceful ambiance, leaving you covered in itchy bites.
If these little suckers manage to sneak inside your home, your peaceful days and good night’s sleep are likely over. They love hovering near your ear, making it nearly impossible to fall asleep in peace. If you manage to sleep, there’s a chance you’ll wake up with red, itchy bumps.
Mosquitoes May Carry Diseases
Those red, itchy bumps are not the worst thing you can get after being bitten by mosquitoes. Mosquitoes carry diseases like dengue, malaria, and the West Nile Virus, which can be fatal.
Mosquito-borne illnesses can be a serious threat. They spread fast, and because there’s no way to determine what mosquito is infected, the only way you can protect yourself and your loved ones is through effective mosquito control.
Mosquitoes Can Endanger Your Pets
Even your pets can get diseases from mosquitoes. The most common and dangerous is heartworm. It affects cats and dogs, does not show any early symptoms, and is expensive to treat. Even if mosquitoes aren’t infected, their bites can make your furry companion uncomfortable.
Mosquitoes Ruin Your Property’s Curb Appeal
Mosquitoes love to inhabit lawns, whether unkept or well-maintained. Their presence can turn your beautiful lawn into an unwelcoming outdoor space. After all, nobody wants to spend time on the lawn with mosquitoes buzzing around.
If you’re planning to sell your property, you must address mosquito infestation because it can deter potential buyers. The presence of pests can also lower your home’s value. For the best results, you can DIY or hire experts in mosquito control for yard areas.
Now you know why mosquito control is so crucial. It protects you and your loved ones from the dangers these pesky flying insects bring, and it protects your property’s value.
8 Ways to Eliminate Mosquitoes
Successful mosquito control will require a combination of strategies. Below are some methods you can use to control the mosquito population on your property.
1. Keep a Manicured Lawn
Unkempt lawns are the perfect hiding spot for mosquitoes. If you want to get rid of those pesky little insects, make sure to mow the grass regularly, trim overgrown shrubs, and remove debris to reduce areas of shade and moisture.
Applying insecticide will also help. At LawnMart, our team uses only safe botanical products for insect control made from chrysanthemums. Our mosquito control service starts by treating all the grass, shrubs, and trees with the product. It reduces the number of full-grown mosquitoes running rampant across your place.
2. Regularly Dump Standing Water
Dumping standing water regularly is one of the easiest things you can do to control the mosquito population on your property. Female mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water, so you’ll prevent any larvae from hatching if you remove their breeding ground.
If it’s impossible to dump standing water, you can call LawnMart for help. Part of the company’s mosquito pest control process is the application of natural bacteria to any standing water. The bacteria are called Bacillus thuringiensis, which attack and kill mosquito larvae. Since it’s natural, you don’t have to worry about adverse effects.
3. Drill Holes in Recycling Buckets and Trash Cans
If you have outdoor recycling buckets or trash cans, drilling small holes in the bottom allows water to drain out, preventing mosquitoes from using them as breeding sites. This simple modification can make a significant difference in reducing mosquito populations near your home.
4. Identify Your Mosquitoes
Different mosquito species have different habits and preferences. Understanding the specific mosquito species in your area can help you tailor your control methods accordingly.
For example, some species prefer to breed in natural bodies of water, while others thrive in urban environments. Identifying the mosquitoes will help you focus on their preferred breeding sites and target them effectively.
5. Check the Gutters
Clogged gutters can accumulate stagnant water, providing an ideal breeding ground for mosquitoes. Regularly clean and maintain your gutters to ensure proper water flow and prevent water accumulation. Additionally, consider installing gutter guards to prevent debris buildup and reduce the risk of standing water.
6. Fill In Low-Lying Areas
Some species of mosquitoes prefer to lay eggs on the ground with a bit of water. By filling in low-lying areas of your property where rainwater collects, you can eliminate one breeding ground for mosquitoes.
7. Set Mosquito Traps
Mosquito traps can be an effective tool for capturing and killing adult mosquitoes. These traps use attractants, such as light or carbon dioxide. They lure mosquitoes and trap them. Make sure the traps are strategically placed in areas where mosquitoes are most active, such as near outdoor seating areas or gardens.
8. Plant Natural Deterrents
Aromatic plants and herbs like lavender, rosemary, basil, and marigolds repel mosquitoes because of their scent. If there’s space in your yard, consider planting these natural deterrents. Aside from warding off pests, these plants can also spruce up your garden.
Can a Professional Mosquito Control Service Get Rid of Mosquitoes Once and for All?
If you’re wondering, “How do I permanently get rid of mosquitoes?” enlisting the help of a professional mosquito control service is your best solution. Experts like LawnMart have the knowledge, experience, and specialized tools to effectively target mosquito populations and minimize their presence in your surroundings.
Professional mosquito control services offer comprehensive treatments that target both adult mosquitoes and their breeding sites.
Take note that even professional mosquito control services cannot eliminate mosquitoes permanently. For those asking the question: Is it possible to get rid of all mosquitoes, sorry to disappoint. It’s difficult to eliminate mosquitoes permanently due to their wide distribution and adaptability. If your neighbors have a mosquito problem, those mosquitoes can migrate to your yard too. But the more you can do to deter these insects, the better.
Choose Natural Ways of Controlling Mosquitoes
Many people choose the easy way of controlling mosquitoes—using chemical insecticides. LawnMart is aware that this method is convenient and fast but can be dangerous to people, pets, and even the environment. That’s why the team sticks to natural methods and organic products.
The company’s comprehensive mosquito control strategy involves the use of botanical insect control made from chrysanthemums and a natural bacterium called Bacillus thuringiensis. The team applies insect control products on plants, shrubs, and trees first, then applies the bacterium to any standing water.
The process is performed six times each season—once every three weeks.
If you are ready to prepare your property for the mosquito season, feel free to contact LawnMart and get a free quote. Once you hire us, you will be given two free service calls to use if bugs return prior to the team’s next scheduled visit.