Mention mosquitoes and people think of the irritating skin reaction that follows a mosquito bite.
Mosquitoes always develop in water, but the type of breeding place varies with the species. Anything that holds still water for at least a few days is common breeding ground for this insect.
The mosquito's life cycle, once the adult lays eggs, is normally 10 days. However, going from an egg (covered with water) to the larval stage, then pupa, and then into an adult mosquito may take 13 to 16 days.
"The best prevention is to be aware of breeding sites," said Patrick Byers, horticulture specialist, University of Missouri Extension.
Areas around the home where standing water exists should be suspect. Gardeners should eliminate unwanted containers of standing water and change water in birdbaths and wading pools once or twice a week.
"If you have garden or lily ponds, be sure to stock them with top-feeding minnows or fish," said Byers.
If standing water cannot be eliminated, then it can be treated to control developing larvae. A thin coat of vegetable oil may be used. Larvicides called mosquito dunks can also be purchased and placed in the water for larval control.
For indoor control, keep windows and doors tightly screened. Aerosol bombs containing pyrethrins or pyrethroids are effective against mosquitoes found in the home.
"Deet is a mosquito repellent that can be applied to skin and clothing and for up to five hours of protection. Mosquitoes are most active in the early morning and late evening. In problem areas, protection should be used if outside activities occur," said Byers.
For more on mosquitoes and their control, contact the nearest MU Extension Center, or the Master Gardener Hotline in Greene County, 417-874-2963.
Community on 05/05/2016