As the 2022 summer months finally approach us here in the Carolinas, pest invasions are out in full force. Home and business owners not only have to deal with invasive and damaging pests inside such as ants and termites but all manner of outdoor pests as well. One of the most well-known adversaries that we face in the summer months is once again ready to search for blood and cause annoying pains and bites, while unknowingly helping to spread damaging diseases. Mosquitos are back - but Nelon-Cole Pest Control is ready to fight!
mosquitos are back for summer in the Carolinas
We want all homeowners in the Carolinas to have a happy and healthy summertime while enjoying the outdoors. In addition to our total lawn care solutions that help provide valuable mosquito control, there are some common-sense tips will help you avoid the leg-scratching agony that accompanies bites from this common pest.
Think about your outdoor lighting - Setting up outdoor lighting a small distance away from your home can draw insects away from your house and reduce the number of mosquitos that find their way indoors. This can anything from small solar-powered lights to floodlights or even power pole lights. As mosquitos (and many flying insects) are drawn to light, this can help keep them away from common gathering areas.
Be aware of any standing water - Pet bowls, birdbaths, and rain barrels can all attract mosquitoes, who use still water a breeding ground. In these cases, make an effort to regularly change standing water sources and replace them with fresh water. This will destroy any existing mosquito eggs that may have been laid in the water.
Use mosquito netting - If your porch/yard isn’t screened well, consider purchasing some sheets of affordable mosquito netting, preferably ones that have been pre-treated with an insecticide. This will serve as a hard barrier against mosquitos and other flying insects, while still letting you enjoy the breezes of the day and keeping fresh air circulating.
Look for naturally repelling herbs and plants - If you already have a garden or were thinking of starting one, consider growing repellent herbs like mint, lemon balm, lavender, or basil. Basil is especially toxic to mosquito larvae. In addition to being natural insect repellants, you can beautify your outdoor area with a variety of colorful plants.
Use fans in and around your gathering area - As aggressive as mosquitoes are, they’re surprisingly weak flyers. Even the airflow from a small portable fan placed near you and low to the ground can deter them from biting you.
Use scented sprays and/or candles - Mosquitos are drawn to smell, but some smells can repel them (much like plants, mentioned above). Common citronella candles are probably the most commonly used repellant, but other scents like clove, cedarwood, lavender, eucalyptus, and peppermint also work well. Scented candles serve as an effective and affordable year-round repellant for mosquitos.
Use a proper spray for uncovered body parts - Deet-based repellants (such as OFF) are excellent at protecting exposed skin areas from painful mosquito bites. Spray yourself liberally for outdoor protection that can last for hours.
Consider the time of day - Mosquitoes are most active during the early morning hours before the sun has fully come up and the air temperature isn't as hot. Mosquitoes find daylight to be deadly, as direct daylight can dehydrate them.
citronella candles can be quite effective and repelling mosquitos
How Damaging Can Mosquitos Be?
Mosquitos are known to carry and transmit many diseases that affect humans. Among these are West Nile Virus, Jamestown Canyon Virus, Western and Eastern Equine Encephalitis, Dengue, and Malaria. Although most can be serious ailments the chances of contracting any of these through a bite are quite low. If bitten, you can choose to treat the affected area with an antibacterial ointment or spray and monitor the area for signs of problems. In addition, report any unusual symptoms (fever, headaches, nausea) to your physician for further analysis and testing.
How Can We Help?
In addition to the above-mentioned precautions and tips, Nelon-Cole has science on your side! We can provide total lawn treatment solutions that can not only help control mosquito populations but also other unwanted summer lawn pests, such as fire ants, grubs, beetles, spiders, bees, and more. Carolina homeowners know that Nelon-Cole provides dependable, affordable, and award-winning services for our customers regardless the size of the job. Put us to work for you and enjoy a mosquito and pest-free summer in 2022. Call 1-888-7-TheWeb and get a FREE consultation on how our services can help protect your home or business.
