Mosquito season in St. Louis can be brutal, with warm temperatures and high humidity creating the perfect breeding ground for these pesky insects. Not only do mosquitoes cause irritating bites, but they also pose health risks by carrying diseases such as West Nile virus and Zika virus.
The good news? You can take proactive steps to mosquito-proof your home and enjoy your summer bite-free. In this guide, we’ll cover proper screening techniques, yard maintenance tips, and how STL Pest Control’s expert treatments can help keep mosquitoes at bay.
1. Screening Doors and Windows Properly
One of the easiest ways to keep mosquitoes out of your home is by securing all entry points, including doors and windows. Here’s how:
Inspect for Gaps and Tears
Even the smallest hole in a window or door screen can be an open invitation for mosquitoes. Check all screens and replace or repair any damaged sections to keep your home protected.
Use Proper Screen Mesh Size
A fine mesh screen with a 16–18 mesh count is ideal for blocking mosquitoes while still allowing fresh air into your home. Avoid larger mesh sizes that might let tiny mosquitoes slip through.
Install Weather Stripping and Door Sweeps
Even with good screens, mosquitoes can sneak in through gaps under doors or around windows. Weather stripping and door sweeps help seal these small openings.
Consider a Screened-In Porch
Love spending time outside but hate mosquito bites? Screened-in porches offer a comfortable outdoor space where you can relax without worrying about pests.
2. Yard Maintenance Tips for Reducing Mosquito Populations
Since mosquitoes breed outdoors, proper yard maintenance is essential to keep their populations under control.
Eliminate Standing Water
Mosquitoes lay their eggs in standing water, so it’s crucial to remove any potential breeding grounds from your property. Be sure to:
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Empty birdbaths, plant saucers, and pet bowls at least once a week.
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Check for clogged gutters that may hold stagnant water.
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Keep pool covers and tarps dry and free of puddles.
Keep Grass and Shrubs Trimmed
Mosquitoes rest in shady, damp areas, such as tall grass and overgrown bushes. By keeping your lawn mowed and trimming shrubs, you reduce hiding spots for these pests.
Use Mosquito-Repelling Plants
Certain plants naturally repel mosquitoes, including:
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Citronella
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Lavender
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Marigolds
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Basil
Plant these around patios, walkways, and outdoor sitting areas to help deter mosquitoes naturally.
Encourage Natural Predators
Mosquitoes have several natural predators, such as:
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Birds
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Dragonflies
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Bats
Setting up birdhouses or bat boxes can encourage these helpful creatures to stick around and reduce the mosquito population in your yard.
3. How STL Pest Control’s Treatments Create a Mosquito-Free Zone
While DIY methods can help, the most effective way to get rid of mosquitoes is with professional mosquito control treatments. Here’s how STL Pest Control can help:
Barrier Treatments
We apply a targeted mosquito spray to key areas where mosquitoes breed and rest, including:
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Shrubs
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Tall grass
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Shaded areas
This long-lasting treatment significantly reduces mosquito activity for weeks at a time.
Larvicide Applications
To prevent mosquitoes from hatching in standing water, we apply safe and effective larvicides in strategic locations.
Ongoing Mosquito Control Plans
For long-term mosquito prevention, we offer regularly scheduled treatments throughout the season, ensuring your home stays mosquito-free all summer long.
Safe and Effective Solutions
Our treatments are designed to be safe for families, pets, and the environment, while still delivering powerful results against mosquitoes.
Mosquitoes don’t have to ruin your summer. By following these mosquito-proofing steps, you can enjoy your home and yard without the constant nuisance of bites.
For the ultimate protection, let STL Pest Control take care of the problem with our professional mosquito treatments.
📞 Call us today to schedule a mosquito inspection and take back your outdoor space!