Is your yard ready for mosquito season? As temperatures rise and heavy rains arrive, it not only indicates the start of spring but also mosquito season. While these pesky, potentially dangerous insects are a year-round problem in Florida, they become especially active in May. While eliminating mosquitoes from your property is never a DIY job, here are some simple steps you can take to keep them from breeding near your home.
Floridians Must Stay on Top of Mosquito Season
Florida is home to more than 80 species of mosquitoes, each with their own unique behavior and characteristics. One thing all mosquitoes share, though, is their long, blood-sucking nose that can be the source of so many infectious pathogens, including:
- Chikungunya virus that causes fever; headaches; and joint and muscle pain.
- Dengue that causes fever, nausea, vomiting, and more symptoms.
- West Nile virus that causes body aches, fever, nausea, and—in severe cases—paralysis
- Zika Virus that causes fever, headaches, joint pain, and more and is particularly dangerous for pregnant women because it causes birth defects
Learn More: The Ultimate Guide to Mosquitoes in Florida: How to Prevent an Invasion
Remove Standing Water
Any standing water on your property is an open invitation for mosquitoes to breed. Water can quickly build up in your yard thanks to heavy spring rains, so look for and remove any standing water in trash can lids, bird baths, and other likely areas.
Also, ensure any outdoor faucets aren’t leaking and creating puddles—even the smallest amount of stagnant water allows mosquitoes to breed. Remember that any water left standing for over 7 days is fair game.
Clean Drains and Gutters
Mosquitoes can breed in even tiny amounts of standing water, so it’s important to remove any possible sources of standing water. As part of your spring cleaning, clean all drains and gutters that could have collected debris over the winter. Ensure all drain areas and gutters allow water to flow freely away from your home.
Maintain Your Yard
As you’re trying to prevent mosquito breeding areas in your yard, consider filling in any dips in your yard that are prone to creating puddles during rainy weather. If you have any water features in your landscaping, consider installing bubblers to keep the water moving and prevent mosquitoes from breeding.
Learn More: How Can I Control Mosquitoes at an Outdoor Event?
Mosquito Control Isn’t a DIY Job in Florida
As we approach May, Floridians need to be well-prepared for the onset of mosquito season. These little pests not only cause itchy bites, but they can also carry dangerous diseases that can be transmitted to humans and pets. It takes the help of pest control professionals to ensure your property stays mosquito-free through May and beyond.
Evergreen Lawn and Pest Control – Debary helps protect your family—including your pets—by providing eco-friendly mosquito control. From one-time mosquito control applications for special events to year-round treatments, we help you make the most of your outdoor spaces with complete peace of mind. Call us today at (407) 880-6655 to schedule your free consultation!
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