Mosquito season officially begins when temperatures rise about 50F. Spring has just sprung here in Northwest Indiana and hopefully we will begin seeing warmer temperatures soon.
There are over 175 known mosquito species, of which 53 are known to be found in the Midwest. Breeding can depend on the species. Speaking in general terms, most mosquitoes in the Midwest breed using standing water. Usually shallow water is used for the breeding of mosquitoes, as little as 1/8 of an inch of water is sufficient. Think of items that are around your yard that may have standing water collecting in them or objects that will collect water. Dirty gutters are a perfect breeding place for certain species which prefer stagnant water containing organic material. Several others prefer the clean water that is provided when rain water settles in items such as tires, wheel barrows, and drip containers of planting pots.
The more time mosquitos have to breed the more
difficult it is to keep them from invading your yard. Like other seasonal pests, the population of mosquitos compounds when conditions and environment are suitable for them. One mosquito will lay hundreds of eggs many which develop into adults, which breed again. This cycle can occur several times in a single season, which is why it seems to get worse until we see the temperatures drop again. As the old saying goes "an ounce of prevention, is worth a pound of cure". It is always more difficult to get a situation under control than it is to keep it in control.
The best start to controlling mosquito population is to eliminate breeding areas. A popular, but incorrect claim is that 'mosquitos can only be controlled at the adult stage'. We always suggest starting a mosquito treatment program early in the season before the swarming starts. We have the knowledge to find these breeding areas that would normally go unnoticed. In addition, we utilize larvaecides and insect growth regulators, which stop the development into adult mosquitos, and can lessen the dependency on chemical applications later on.
When the weather begins to warm up is the perfect time to give us a call and begin with our package that will keep your yard free of these pests, and your family safe from mosquitoes all season long. We at The Green Advantage are Northwest Indiana’s Most Qualified Pest Control Specialists. Let us help you keep your yard and family from the pesky mosquitos!