How to keep Mosquitos away?

Discussion in 'Plant Pests, Diseases and Weeds' started by MyGirlFriday, May 29, 2007.

  1. MyGirlFriday

    MyGirlFriday Seedling

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    Here in Texas we have had so much rain that the mosquitos are taking over!!
    You are taking your life into your own hands when you go out near sundown~
    I have tried just about everything but they are still horrible!
    Anyone have any ideas for me???
    Help~we are getting eaten alive!!!
    :smt100
     
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  3. toni

    toni Mistress of Garden Junque Staff Member Moderator Plants Contributor

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    Keep checking your yard for any standing water no matter how small an amount, it doesn't take much to be a breeding ground for them. Trays under potted plants, water standing on the top of potted plants, kids toys, etc.
    If you have birdbaths, a rainwater collection system, a pond or other water feature, there are granuals and other treatments you can put in them that will kill the larvae but not hurt birds or make the rain water unusable for the garden.

    A really effective repellant spray is 3 ounces of rubbing alcohol mixed with 1 ounce of Peppermint Essential Oil....not flavoring or fragrance oil...pour into a small spray bottle and use on exposed skin before going out and a few times while outside if needed.
    But not around your eyes.

    The good thing about mosquitos this year is that the weather has been cool enough that the ones carrying the West Nile Virus are not a threat yet, they like it hot.

    Good luck. I don't have to wait until sundown for mosquitoes to be a problem, they are really bad all day here lately since our neighbors don't take care of the standing water in their yards.
     
  4. glendann

    glendann Official Garden Angel

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    I have always used Deep Woods Off.It seems to work well.Turkey or Bufflo knats usually are bad around here and vanilla flavoring keeps them away .You may smell like a cake but it worksbut not for mosquitos.
     
  5. teddybear

    teddybear In Flower

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    I feel your pain! We use deep woods off too. The ticks have started to show up now. But Off works on them and the skitters, must be summer.
     



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  6. bethie

    bethie Young Pine

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    Toni is so Very Right. Even water in your rain gauge will breed mosquitos. Many types only need 5 days to become mosquitos. I use some of the Avon repellents for daily use. I can't handle that deep Woods Off on my skin all day.
     
  7. SgtBaldy

    SgtBaldy New Seed

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  8. MyGirlFriday

    MyGirlFriday Seedling

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    Would you believe we are up 13 inches for the year???
    We had 1 1/4 inches last night. Just unbelievable!
    I would love to send dsome rain to Florida and the mosquitos too!

    I make a daily trip around the yard dumping water in pots, saucers and the rain guage! :D
    Luckily we don't have any standing water in the yard. I do have dunks in my pond but need to locate a supplier to get some more!

    thanks for the advise!!
    mgf~ :setc_083:
     
  9. Netty

    Netty Chaotic Gardener Plants Contributor

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    I use Deep Woods too or Muskol when they are really bad.
    There are a few plants I keep in pots where we sit that Mosquito's don't like...Citrosa and Lemon Balm.
     

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