Mosquitoes are more than just a summertime nuisance — some species can transmit diseases such as West Nile Virus. Even when disease risk is low, their bites can make patios, gardens, and outdoor spaces uncomfortable or unusable. Understanding their life cycle and targeting both larvae and adults is the key to effective control.
Quick Mosquito Control Tips
- Mosquitoes lay eggs in standing water
- Larvae can develop into adults in as little as 4 days
- Eliminating standing water is the most effective prevention
- Larval control is safer and more effective than adult spraying alone
Understanding the Mosquito Life Cycle
Mosquitoes lay their eggs in or near water. These eggs hatch into aquatic larvae, which then develop into flying adults. Female mosquitoes feed on blood to produce more eggs, allowing populations to grow rapidly during warm weather.
Depending on conditions, mosquitoes can complete their entire life cycle in as little as four days or as long as a month. New adults continue to emerge throughout the summer. During the day, they typically rest in shrubs, tall grass, and shaded areas, becoming active in the evening.
Eliminating Standing Water
The most effective way to reduce mosquito populations is to remove standing water from your landscape. Even small amounts can support breeding.
- Clean clogged gutters regularly
- Empty buckets, flowerpot saucers, and birdbaths frequently
- Remove old tires or items that collect rainwater
Controlling Mosquito Larvae
When water cannot be eliminated — such as in ponds or water features — larval control is the safest and most targeted solution.
Products like Mosquito Bits contain Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis), a naturally occurring bacterium that kills mosquito larvae without harming fish, pets, wildlife, or beneficial insects such as honey bees.
Controlling Adult Mosquitoes
Adult mosquitoes can be repelled or reduced in areas where people gather during the evening. Shrubs, tall grass, and shaded areas should be included in treatment since these are common resting sites.
Products from Bonide’s Mosquito Beater line can be applied to lawns, landscape beds, and around patios to reduce adult mosquito activity. These treatments help make outdoor living spaces far more enjoyable during summer months.
*Always read and follow all label instructions when applying any control products.