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Mosquitoes Here are a few alternative solutions I've heard about that you might want to try while you are puttering or playing around the house. Everyone knows to get rid of standing water where mosquitoes breed such as old tires, buckets, etc. This is one time we can be happy to have the sandy soil that soaks up every drop of water that falls from the sky. Farm ponds with lots of natural vegetation around them will create the right environment for native fish, frogs, dragonflies, spiders, water striders, ground beetles, and ants that feed on mosquitoes even when they are in their pre-adult stage. Purple martins and bats actually prefer larger insects so depending on them for mosquito control might give disappointing results. If you have a decorative pond you can use a doughnut shaped product that contains a naturally occurring bacterium and is commonly called a mosquito dunk. Mosquito dunks can be found in most garden centers. There are mosquito traps that cost as much as 500 dollars available and emit carbon dioxide to lure and trap mosquitoes and claim to work in areas as large as an acre. However, these products will not work on all species of mosquitoes. Studies have shown that the necklaces or bracelets that contain deet only work for about 20 minutes.When hiking, fishing, or working in the field the best solution is still going to be the standard sprays that contain deet. Some inexpensive things to do around your house for the area the kids play or where you like to entertain is to simply set out a large fan. (Installing an overhead fan on your patio works great.) Citronella candles and tiki torches will also provide some relief. Planting herbs such as catnip, basil, lemon thyme, and lemon grass around your favorite area to relax is also good idea. A canned yard fogger, or "bomb" that is supposed to clear bugs from a large area will be a disaster for any beneficial insects. I get lots of questions about the Mosquito Geranium Plant. This plant is promoted as a way to repel mosquitoes. Actually, the citronella content of the Mosquito Geranium is less than the standard rose-scented Geranium. A better choice for the garden or patio is Lemon Balm as it also contains citronella and is easy to grow from seed. The seed can be purchased at Johnny's Seeds (877-564-6697) www.johnnysseeds.com, or Richters, www.richters.com (1.905.640.6677)
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Since the late 1800's when scientists learned how diseases like the West Nile Virus could be spread by mosquitoes, humans have battled one of the worst pests to ever befall mankind. It's hard to believe, but nearly every species of mosquito in the world lives in some part of Texas. Although covering yourself with a spray containing deet is the most effective way to repel the little buggers, you probably don't want to spray it on your skin every day.
