by Marc
Vargas
Colorado State University Extension Master
Gardener
Larimer County
Q: We are putting in a new water feature. I am so excited but concerned about mosquitoes and the diseases they carry. What should I do?
A: A water feature is a beautiful and soothing element
to add to your garden. But you are correct—mosquitoes can transmit diseases.
So you need to put on gloves and fight back.
The main
types of mosquitoes in Colorado are the Aedas (feeds during the day and night)
and the Culex/Culiseta (feeds at night). Only adult females feed on blood. The
mosquito life cycle is: egg - larvae - pupa - adult. The key to mosquito control
is to bump them off at the larval stage.
Take a four-step approach to make your water feature mosquito free.
Education
Habitat modification
Natural predators
Insecticides/repellents
Know your enemy
There is great information available about mosquito management. Do more research.
Check out these references: www.ext.colostate.edu/westnile/mosquito_mgt.html
www.ext.colostate.edu/westnile/faq.html
Extension Fact
Sheet #5.526 - Mosquito Management
Habitat modification
Change your garden environment, focusing on eliminating those areas that can
serve as nurseries for larva. Eliminate standing water from clogged gutters
and low spots. Regularly empty standing water from bird baths and wading pools.
Remove things that collect water like empty garden pots, candle holders and
that funny looking garden sculpture your spouse got you as a gift. Wear light
colored clothing while outdoors—it might keep them from munching you.
Natural predators
As annoying as mosquitoes are, they are a buffet for all types of animals and
other insects. Try introducing a hungry, mosquito-eating machine into your water
feature. Goldfish, dragon fly nymphs or diving beetles will eat larva all day
long. Let these and other predators do the work while you relax.
Insecticides/Repellents
Always read and follow all instructions before applying any repellent or insecticide.
Think of two areas for application—your water feature and yourself. Deet
is one of the most effective mosquito repellents for humans. Avoid breathing
or digesting any insecticide. Apply only to exposed skin and clothing.
For your water feature, there are a number of larvacides and adultacides available
to the consumer. Research on your part is crucial; visit the following website
for detailed information: http://www.ext.colostate.edu/westnile/mosquito_mgt.html
Gardening and Insect Fact Sheets are available on-line by clicking HERE.
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