Houston area residents are being advised to rid their property of any standing water – fountains, ponds, swimming pools, and other mosquito breeding areas– to assist with limiting the mosquito population.
Hartz Pest Control owner Tom Collier said mosquitos require just a minute amount of water to breed, and thanks to heavy rains, the area is expected to suffer from a heavy mosquito season. And these heavy rains are one reason the mosquito season will persist throughout the next few months.
Hartz has been in the business for 30 years and is anticipating a busy season ahead because of all the stagnant water left around homes and businesses. Collier said it’s this stagnant water, which is similar to aquatic sites, that has increased the mosquito population numbers. He said the best way to stem down the population is to have Houston residents be mindful of standing water and protect themselves and their animals.
Mosquitoes Are A Danger To Houstonians And Their Pets
Anyone who has lived in Texas has experienced the biting of a hungry mosquito, also known as an ankle biter. These nuisance flying bugs carry all kinds of diseases, from dengue fever to West Nile virus, the most common U.S. mosquito-borne disease. For animals like dogs, a mosquito can cause the development of heartworms and the sleeping sickness called Eastern Equine Encephalitis. Mosquito bites can also affect cats with heartworms and increase sensitivity.
5 Ways to Enjoy Your Backyard Without Mosquitos
The summer season translates to longer days outside, barbeque with family and friends, games, etc. However, mosquitos can cut all that enjoyment short. Don’t let this happen to you! There are five things you can do to produce a sanctuary for you and your loved ones that is free of mosquitos.
Remove Standing Water Where Mosquitoes Lay Eggs
One of the best ways to control the mosquito population is to remove their primary source – in this case, standing water. It’s not just standing water in buckets, cups, etc. You also have to check the lawn to see if any water is not draining correctly after rain. If you constantly see standing water after it rains, your lawn will need work to eliminate the drainage problem.
Cut The Grass
Mosquitos love water, but they also love areas that are cool and free of sun, such as tall grass, trees, and bushes. The more sun in your yard, the better. The sun will also help to dry out the wet areas that can breed mosquitos and lead to mildew growth.
Use Mosquito-Repelling Scents
If you want a natural way to keep mosquitos at bay, look for plants that repel these flying pests. The most common scent is citronella, which is a clump of grass that permeates the area with its scent and repels them. You also invest in other flowering plants like geraniums, pennyroyal, and marigolds.
Use Mosquitoes Repelling Lights
Another common way to stave off mosquitos is to use citronella candles or bug-repelling lanterns while outside in the evening.
Use A Professional Pest Control Company
Many home and business owners will take the steps necessary to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds themselves. However, a professional pest control company like Hartz Pest Control can help. These companies will analyze the landscape, make suggestions and create a personalized mosquito management plan to combat these bugs. They can also use a mosquito spray designed to kill and repel the bugs without endangering you, your loved ones, or your pets.
Hartz Pest Control is a family-owned and locally-owned Houston Mosquito Control Specialist. Serving Houston for over 3 decades. Call them today for a fast no cost quote at 713-461-4866.
