How Long Does Mosquito Season Last In Houston?
Mosquito season in Houston can last from March to October with peak activity between April and September. Mosquitoes can be active when temperatures are above 50 degrees—which is most of the year here. So, while it is nice to live in a tropical climate, we have the downside of a longer mosquito season. We also have the downside of a greater risk for mosquito-borne diseases. That is why it is important to know everything you can about mosquito prevention in Houston. Here are some of the most important tips the experts at Modern Pest Control suggest.
Everything Houston Residents Need To Know About Mosquitoes
Few things in Houston are quite as annoying as mosquitoes. From their loud, buzzing whines to itchy, raised bites, it can be difficult to get a handle on these pests and reclaim your outdoor space.
You also should know heavy mosquito activity can be more than just a nuisance. These pests spread serious illness and disease in just a single bite, meaning an infestation may put you at risk for potential hospitalization. Mosquitoes can be a significant nuisance in the United States, particularly during the warmer months. They are known to cause discomfort through their itchy bites, leaving red, swollen welts on the skin. These bites can be a source of irritation for individuals, disrupting outdoor activities and peaceful nights.
In addition to the discomfort, mosquitoes in the U.S. can also transmit diseases such as West Nile virus, which can lead to flu-like symptoms, and in severe cases, neurological issues. Another notable mosquito-borne disease is the Zika virus, which can result in birth defects if contracted during pregnancy. Chikungunya is yet another concern, causing severe joint pain, fever, and sometimes long-lasting joint pain or arthritis. While not as deadly as malaria, these diseases emphasize the importance of mosquito control measures to protect public health in the United States.
The best and easiest way to prevent that from happening is to receive regular mosquito control services from Modern Pest Control. Beyond our regular applicants and personalized advice, we can also help you identify potential attractant factors to keep yourself and your loved ones out of harm’s way. Give us a call today to discuss the mosquito control services offered by our hand-picked team.
That said, here are some of the most important steps you can take to minimize your risk for mosquito activity in Houston:
1. Control stagnant water.
Many species of mosquito can reproduce in a ½ inch of stagnant water. If you have stagnant water resources in your yard, you're going to have more mosquitoes. Look for containers that capture rainwater and dump them or remove them. If you have a birdbath, consider adding fish to it. Fish do a great job of gobbling up developing mosquitoes, (especially goldfish).
2. Control dampness.
Many species of mosquito can reproduce on damp ground. If you have damp areas in your yard and in your landscaping, you're going to have more mosquitoes. A common cause of dampness around a home is a broken or obstructed gutter system. We highly recommend a yearly inspection of your gutters. Make sure water is being channeled down and away from your home.
3. Reduce plants if you can.
Mosquitoes eat nectar and plant sap. The same mouthparts a female mosquito uses to draw blood from your skin can be used to drawn plant sap out of a plant stem. Therefore, more plants in your yard will lead to more mosquitoes. If you're able to part with some plants, you may be able to reduce mosquitoes in your yard.
4. Introduce mosquito-resistant plants.
There are many plants that are naturally resistant to mosquitoes such as citronella grass, lavender, catnip, marigolds, rosemary, and scented geraniums. When you plant these in your landscaping, you can make it less inviting to mosquitoes. This won't act as a mosquito shield, but it can deter mosquitoes from wanting to be in the vegetation around your property. It is even more of a deterrent if you're able to activate the smells by brushing your hands on these plants. Some homeowners who use this strategy also apply the oils to their skin for added protection.
5. Consider personal protection.
There are many ways you can prevent mosquito bites when you go out into your yard. Here are some examples:
Create a screened-in area. This will allow the breeze in and keep the mosquitoes out.
Mosquito repellent with DEET can be effective at warding off bites. It isn't perfect but it can be helpful. If you don't prefer to put mosquito repellent on your skin, consider putting it on your clothing or try using a natural repellent with oil of lemon eucalyptus.
If you intend to sit in one location, outdoor fans can help to keep mosquitoes off you and keep you cool at the same time.
Wearing bright colors can make it harder for mosquitoes to lock onto you.
Refrain from wearing perfume or cologne. Sweet smells attract mosquitoes.
Refrain from drinking alcohol when you're outside. Mosquitoes can be drawn to you after you have had only one beer.
6. Consider seasonal mosquito treatments.
If you don't have mosquitoes in your yard, you're less likely to be bitten by mosquitoes. Makes sense, doesn't it? The best way to significantly reduce mosquitoes in your yard is with seasonal mosquito treatments applied by a licensed professional. The products used not only repel mosquitoes, but they work to eliminate them when they come into your yard. Since a single female can lay 100 eggs at a time, you can potentially kill hundreds of mosquitoes when you eliminate one female.
If you live in the Greater Houston area and you'd like seasonal mosquito service or a one-time treatment in preparation for an outdoor event, we can help. We also offer mosquito misting systems that puts mosquito control in the palm of your hand. You can use your smartphone to release mist on your property whenever you need to. There is no better way to get control of those mosquitoes. Contact us today for a consultation.