Barrier spray treatments are the most effective professional service for backyard mosquito control. They work by applying a residue to vegetation that controls mosquitoes on contact for about 21 days at a time.
If you've tried citronella candles, bug zappers, and store-bought sprays and you're still getting bitten, professional treatment is the logical next step. But not all services are the same, and it helps to understand what's out there.
Barrier spray treatments are the industry standard for a number of good reasons. The way they work is that a technician uses a backpack mist blower to apply a product to the vegetation and shaded areas where mosquitoes rest. Once dry (usually within 30 minutes), it continues to control mosquitoes that land on treated surfaces. This works for about three weeks at a time. Mosquitoes spend more time resting than flying, which is why it works so well.
Mosquito misting systems are another option. These are permanently installed around the perimeter of a yard and release a timed mist of insecticide. They can be effective, but they're significantly more expensive to install and maintain, and coverage tends to be less precise.
Mosquito traps that use CO2 and attractant lures can reduce local populations over time, but they work slowly and are best used in tandem with other methods. Alone, they won’t provide the kind of relief that barrier treatment does.
When considering a provider, look for one that will evaluate your specific property. You’ll want a provider who can explain which products they use and why, and who will come back to re-treat on a regular basis. One-time applications help, but nothing beats sustained seasonal treatment since mosquitoes are best controlled on a population level.
If you're tired of dealing with mosquitoes in your Northern Westchester yard, Mosquito Squad of Northern Westchester can help. A technician will assess your property, identify where mosquitoes breed and hide, and set up a treatment plan. With treatments every 21 days, you can expect a reduction of up to 90% in the mosquito population on your property throughout the season.
