Be aware — it’s still mosquito season in Middle Georgia

Don’t relax your vigilance with mosquitoes just yet. Cooler weather may have slowed them down, but people, pets and livestock can still be exposed to West Nile virus, an infection spread by mosquitoes.

Of the 60-plus species of mosquitos in Georgia, thankfully only 10-12 are serious pests. Unfortunately, because of our warm, southern location, there are winters when they can breed throughout the year. I don’t have a silver bullet for mosquito control. However, the cheapest and easiest control is to remove sites where females lay their eggs on the surface of water. After eggs hatch, it takes the young only five to seven days to mature into adult mosquitoes. 

Anywhere with standing water — not flowing — is a problem. Focus on pools of water left behind by rain (although this has not been the case lately). There are more potential “mosquito nurseries” than you might think.

Around your yard, remove or dump containers that hold water. Used tires and saucers under flower pots, for instance, are significant breeding sites. Clean out birdbaths at least once per week. Also, weekly drain or flush wading pools and other spots that collect water.

Rain gutters are often forgotten. However, be sure they are cleaned so water does not puddle. Finally, in heavy use outside areas, eliminate tall grass and weeds that are nearby to eliminate spots where adult mosquitoes may hide during the day. 

There are also a number of products that can be used to keep you safe from mosquitoes. Products such as Agnique MMF form a film on the surface of the water, smothering larvae. It can be used in pet water. Mosquito dunks or briquettes containing Bti are reported as safe and effective. Altosid and Zodiac contain methoprene, an insect growth regulator. 

Finally, for adults, aerosol foggers can offer temporary relief in a limited space. Surface treatments are effective if applied uniformly with good coverage. Look for chemical ingredients that end with “-thrin.”

Additionally, repellents such as candles, lamps, torches, clip-ons and Themacell are also effective in more confined areas with limited air movement. Keep in mind, this can kill many other insects besides just mosquitos. Consider using a combination of tactics to achieve acceptable control.

It is best practice to use insecticides judiciously so as to not impact a wide range of non-target organisms. 

Let me end with a word of caution. Products that sound too good to be true probably are. Always follow label instructions to protect you and the environment.

Upcoming event

Gardening in Georgia: Trick or treat? That’s the theme of the Georgia Annual Master Gardener Conference Oct. 17-18 at the Edgar H. Wilson Convention Center at Macon Marriott City Center.

Non-members are welcome. Early registration ends Oct. 3. Learn more at georgiamastergardeners.org.

Karol Kelly is with the University of Georgia Cooperative Extension.