How Rain Barrels and Overfilled Garden Pots Fuel Backyard Mosquito Swarms in Brookfield

There is nothing mosquitoes love more than standing water. Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water, so any damp or wet areas around your lawn could cause an increase in mosquito swarms. Two potential culprits for water-induced mosquito population increases in Wisconsin may be rain barrels and garden pots in your backyard. If you have either of these in your backyard, there are steps you can take to help control mosquito infestations.

What is a rain barrel?

A rain barrel is a large container placed on your property to collect rainwater, typically placed underneath a gutter downspout on a level surface. This water can then be used to water your lawn or other vegetation around your home. This conserves clean water use while decreasing your water bill. It also helps reduce erosion by lessening rain runoff, making this a great choice for those concerned about environmental conservation. Another benefit is that it also helps keep water away from your foundation, potentially saving homeowners from costly repairs.

How can I help prevent mosquito breeding in and around my rain barrel?

If mosquitoes get inside your water barrel, they are sure to lay eggs, which can develop into egg-laying adults within 7-10 days. Before you know it, you have a mosquito swarm on your hands. There are some tips and tricks to enjoy the benefits of your rain barrel without turning your yard into a mosquito haven.

1. Apply a mesh cover - Make sure all openings are secured or covered with a mesh screen, with holes less than 1/16th of an inch to help prevent mosquitoes from squeezing in and laying eggs.
2. Clean and maintain your barrel - Inspect your barrel for cracks and leaks regularly, and also look around your barrel for stagnant water. Be sure to use the water quickly. Empty and clean your barrel consistently every 3-6 months with a water-vinegar solution. Be sure to routinely check in and around your rain barrel for debris.
3. Use insecticide - BTI (bacillus thuringiensis israelensi) is a larvicide naturally occurring in the soil and is gentle enough to use on grass and plants (though it is unsafe for drinking water or use on gardens growing food for humans). You can find BTI in granule forms or “dunks.”

Is my garden pot attracting mosquitoes?

Unfortunately, those beautiful petunias in your flower pot could be a mosquito’s favorite new nesting ground. The mosquitoes are not drawn so much to the vibrant colors or sweet fragrance but to the standing water at the bottom of the saucer or dish. Mosquitos will look for stagnant water around your yard to lay eggs, so it is important to check for puddling water and empty your pots accordingly. Better yet, try not to overfill your pots to prevent stagnant water from forming in the first place, not only to help control mosquito swarms but also to keep your flowers and other plants growing and healthy.

What can I do to help control my backyard mosquito swarms?

If mosquitoes have already made your backyard a home and breeding ground, Mosquito Squad Plus in Brookfield has the professionals to assess your situation and tools to help control a growing mosquito infestation. Mosquito Squad Plus offers a mosquito barrier treatment that utilizes a specialized formula to help reduce up to 90% of mosquitoes and other backyard pests for up to 21 days. We also offer an eco-friendly insecticide option that uses plant-based ingredients that are environmentally friendly and lessen the likelihood of allergies. All Mosquito Squad Plus treatment options come with a 100% satisfaction guarantee (see your local franchise for more information). Let us know within 21 days if you are not happy, and we will come back to apply a complementary treatment.

Contact Mosquito Squad Plus in Brookfield online or call us today at (262) 333-0395 to see which treatment plan works best for you!