Centennial summer nights should be about backyard barbecue and star gazing, not swatting mosquitoes every five seconds. There are numerous breeding grounds for mosquitoes in our neighborhoods, thanks to the city’s proximity to Cherry Creek State Park and the presence of multiple retention ponds. Centennial has a recipe for mosquito explosions in the warmer months, which is fed by its irrigation systems, afternoon thunderstorms, and lush landscaping. DIY can only do so much to control flying pests, and some situations require more than a spray of insect repellent. For ongoing swarms that make your outdoor area off-limits, you may want to consider contacting Saela Pest Control for more targeted, effective treatments.
7 Mosquito Control Tips for Centennial Backyards
Eliminate Standing Water Within 48 Hours
Eggs hatch in 48 hours, and mosquitoes breed in just a tablespoon of standing water. After Centennial’s frequent summer storms, check your yard for anything holding water (flower pot saucers, kids’ toys, tarps) and dump it out, including that old bucket you forgot about behind the shed.
Maintain Your Lawn and Landscaping
Tall grass and dense shrubbery can make an ideal hiding spot for mosquitoes on hot afternoons. You want to keep your lawn no higher than 3 inches and have bushes trimmed back so nothing obstructs patios and doorways. Our high clay content will retain moisture longer than sandy soils, so avoid overwatering your landscaping. Schedule your sprinkler system to operate early in the morning, not in the evening, as mosquitoes prefer wet conditions.
Clean Out Gutters Regularly
A gutter filled with water can become a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Centennial receives just about 17 inches of precipitation per year, allowing leaves and other debris to accumulate and create small, stagnant pools. Clean them twice a year, in both spring and fall. Your indication to open up the ladder is: if you observe water collecting on your roof, or gutters overflowing after rainfall.
Use Fans on Patios and Decks
Mosquitoes struggle with winds exceeding 1-2 mph; they are weak fliers. Ceiling fans or oscillating fans placed around your deck create an invisible buffer that these pests cannot cross. It is especially effective during Centennial during the not-so-wild hours of the night, when you are likely to be outside.
Install or Repair Window and Door Screens
Inspect all your screens for rips, holes, or spaces where mosquitoes might be able to enter. A tiny hole can let dozens of mosquitoes inside overnight. You can purchase a cheap screen repair kit from a hardware store in Centennial, or replace the entire device if it is out of warranty.
Treat Water Features Properly
For those with ornamental ponds, birdbaths, or fountains, ensure that the water remains in motion. Circulating water prevents mosquitoes from laying eggs. Replace water in birdbaths every 2 to 3 days. Ponds: Add mosquito dunks (Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis), biological larvicides that eradicate mosquito larvae without harming birds, fish, or pets. This technique has been particularly effective for Centennial residents with backyard ponds near the High Line Canal.
Plant Mosquito-Repelling Vegetation
There are many other proven mosquito-repelling plants hardy to Centennial that are also beautiful additions to your landscape, such as lavender, marigolds, citronella grass, and catmint. Plant them near areas where people tend to congregate, such as seating areas, walkways, and entryways. Just keep in mind, these are tools to help, but not the whole solution.
Benefits of Professional Mosquito Control
When DIY efforts fall short in terms of effectiveness, professional mosquito control provides comprehensive solutions tailored to your property’s specific mosquito challenges. Companies such as Saela Pest Control are familiar with Centennial, from the wetland areas near the South Platte River to suburban neighborhoods boasting mature trees and automatic irrigation systems. They target treatments towards mosquito resting/breeding areas instead of blanket-spraying your entire yard.