It’s common knowledge that a mosquito’s ideal breeding ground consists of standing water, but you may not realize how many of these sources exist in your backyard even as you’re reading this right now. And with every instance of rainfall, more standing water sources are created. The professionals at SWAT Mosquito Systems West Palm Beach will teach you places where mosquitoes like to breed and what you can do to control the situation.
Learn more > 4 Tips For Preparing For Florida’s Mosquito Season In 2023
1. Permanent Water Fixtures
The first place you might think of when it comes to stagnant water involves permanent water fixtures like pools, fountains, and bird baths. Since their main purposes revolve around water, this is an obvious conclusion to many. However, what can you do about these vessels that are meant to hold water, especially if it rains? If you’re not using these fixtures, it’s better to drain them completely and continue to drain them regularly after it rains. Alternatively, you can place a cover or tarp over the opening but be aware that tarps can also collect water on top. This can be easily remedied by spraying it down with a garden hose.
2. Outdoor Recreational Items
Many people love playing and relaxing outside which leads to the purchase of many recreational items and backyard toys. Such items include:
- Barbecue grills
- Fire pits
- Patio furniture
- Hammocks
- Flower pots
- Wheelbarrows
- Play sets
- Large plastic toys (like pretend vehicles)
For items that can be easily carried, it would be best to bring them inside or store them away in the shed in anticipation of rainy weather. Larger items can be covered up or sprayed down with a hose after it rains. Lightweight plastic items can simply be tipped over a couple of times to effectively dump any water that may be present.
3. Recyclable Items and Disposable Clutter
Sometimes we tend to lose track of clutter in the yard, especially after hosting many outdoor parties or gatherings. Either before or after a rainy spell, it’s worth it to spend a few minutes looking around for anything that could be considered recyclable, trash, or garbage. Even the smallest piece of trash can store enough water for mosquitoes to breed successfully, so don’t leave anything to chance!
4. Natural Yard Elements
Paying mind to the items scattered around your yard is essential in cutting down on available breeding spots, but natural greenery can collect water, too. Trees can hold water in their leaves, or any holes that can be found in the bark. Even tree stumps can hold water on top in the various holes and crevices. Separate logs work in the same way. Again, spraying down your trees and shrubs can do a lot to disturb these would-be breeding sites. Mowing your lawn can also do wonders since tall grass can also act as a suitable place for mosquitoes.
5. Pipes and Gutter Systems
When searching for potential mosquito breeding areas, don’t forget to look up! This task may prove a little more difficult, but checking your gutters and pipes can help prevent your backyard mosquito population from getting worse. You need to be thorough when removing standing water in your yard because mosquitoes can easily find any small source that you may have overlooked. If you want to create a hazardous environment for mosquitoes in the easiest way possible that’s of no harm to you, mosquito misting is your best bet.
Learn more > Will Rain Wash Away My Mosquito Treatment?
Mosquito Misting: An Easier Solution
Call SWAT Mosquito Systems West Palm Beach today at (954) 437-1815 to ask about our automated misting systems! Our custom misting solutions work automatically around the clock so you can fight back against mosquitoes with little effort. We’ll even provide you with a remote for you to control your misting network whenever you want!