Do-It-Yourself Pesticide Options for Mosquito Control
Eliminating standing water is the most effective way to eliminate mosquito production in a residential setting. In some cases, such as fountains, ponds, or drains that hold water, this may not be accomplished in a timely manner.
Although OCMVCD encourages residents to seek the most permanent solution, do-it-yourself pesticide applications may be a part of an integrated approach to controlling mosquitoes on their property.
MOSQUITO LARVICIDES
Mosquito larvicides are products designed to eliminate mosquitoes in the larval stage, before they emerge as flying adults. These products are designed to be applied directly to standing water. Look for larvicides labeled for the control of mosquitoes -- both online as well at your local garden center, home improvement and hardware stores -- which contain the following active ingredients:
BTI (Bacillus thuringiensis)
- BTI is derived from a naturally occurring soil bacterium and is available in granular or “dunk” formulations.
Spinosad
- Spinosad is also derived from a soil bacterium and is available in tablet formulations which provide up to several weeks of control. Spinosad tablets are a good choice for small yard drains as they may dry out and remain viable when rewetted.
Methoprene
- Methoprene is a type of larvicide known as an insect growth regulator, which is a type of pesticide that interferes with a mosquito larvae’s ability to fully mature into a flying adult. Methoprene is available in granular or tablet formulations.
MOSQUITO ADULTICIDES
Mosquito adulticides are typically aerosol products which may provide some relief from flying adult mosquitoes. The bene ts of aerosol adulticides tend to be short-lived, but may be of use to suppress an active adult mosquito population prior to an outdoor event.
Look for adulticides labeled for the control of mosquitoes -- both online as well at your local garden center, home improvement and hardware stores -- which contain the following active ingredients:
Prallethrin or Cyfluthrin
- Prallethrin or Cyfluthrin, or a combination of the two, are commonly available in over-the-counter adulticide aerosols.
If a resident chooses to incorporate pesticides into their mosquito control strategy, it is essential to read and follow the label requirements precisely in order to achieve the safest and most effective results. It is recommended that residents resort to pesticide application only when necessary.
Whenever possible, elimination of standing water should remain the primary mosquito control strategy. If your property includes a substantial water feature at least one foot of water, such as an ornamental pond, please contact OCMVCD for an evaluation and delivery of mosquito-eating fish at no charge.
You can also contact us for a free inspection.