Best Mosquito Control Companies Of November 2023

Chemicals or Natural Sprays

Most mosquito spray companies use “pyrethrins” or “pyrethroids.” The former is a chemical insecticide derived from chrysanthemum flowers, which are toxic to insects. The latter is a synthetic version of the same. Unfortunately, whether the mosquito control company uses the naturally-derived pyrethrin or the synthetic pyrethroid, these sprays are toxic not only to mosquitoes but to a wide range of insects including beneficial ones like butterflies, ladybugs, bees and other pollinators.

The EPA itself acknowledges even those pesticides the agency has approved for use are still highly toxic to bees—killing them on contact and for multiple days after the initial spray treatment. Killing bees is widely understood to be disastrous for the environment. Forbes Advisor does not recommend the use of any chemical compound that will kill bees.

You are watching: Best Mosquito Control Companies Of November 2023

Many mosquito spray companies are now offering alternative “organic” or “natural” spray options which are marketed as less dangerous to other, beneficial, insect life. Please note that the marketing term “organic” is highly regulated by the USDA and unless a “USDA Certified Organic” seal is present, no product labeled “organic” is subject to government—or any—regulation. Chemicals and pesticides approved for use on products labeled “USDA Certified Organic” are OMRI-listed as such, but even this does not guarantee these chemicals will not harm beneficial lifeforms.

Read more : Brrr! Here’s How to Keep Your Pooch Warm & Cozy for Winter

Garlic is one safer alternative, as well as certain plant-based oils. Companies offering alternative sprays also tend to spray later in the day when mosquitoes are more active as opposed to in the middle of the day when bees and other beneficial insects are out. More research is needed to determine how harmful these alternative sprays may be, but they are more than likely less harmful, especially when not sprayed with direct contact onto good insects.

Knowing which type of spray your mosquito control company uses, and how and when that spray is applied, is an important factor when choosing the right company for you.

Other Mosquito Control Methods

Since bee-killing chemical sprays should ideally never be used, the two most important alternative mosquito control methods to consider are source reduction and early intervention. Mosquitoes require stagnant water to develop, so identifying and removing sources of standing water such as fountains, birdbaths, gutters and garbage cans will stop mosquito larvae from developing.

For fountains, ponds, or other sources of water that cannot be drained, early intervention can be accomplished by homeowners (or pest control companies) placing mosquito dunks in the water. These small tablets contain bacteria that feeds on mosquito larvae but is relatively harmless to other wildlife and people. Ponds can also be stocked with koi fish, turtles, frogs or crayfish, all of which are voracious eaters of mosquitoes and their larvae.

Read more : How to Select the Right Camping Shower

Many mosquito control companies will also offer evaluation and advice on how to landscape your yard to minimize mosquito breeding areas without sacrificing a beautiful lawn. Companies that offer a package of “integrated pest management”, a combination of many methods designed to seamlessly work together both reactionary and preventatively, will likely be your best bet. Choosing those companies focused not just on chemical or natural sprays, but also on alternative control methods, will make sure you don’t damage the vital natural ecosystem around your home.

Packaged Whole House Pest Management

Many companies offer mosquito control as one of many other pest control services. Most companies featured on our list also offer pest control for a wide variety of bug species, as well as rodents, birds, lizards, rats and other common household pests. If you have problems with other pests in your home or want to make sure you never do, look for a company that offers bundled or packaged pest management. This will often save you thousands of dollars and hours of time a year since companies can send the same technician out to provide mosquito control and other services that your home may need.

Free Estimates and Inspections

The five companies featured on our list all offer free estimates, but not all of them offer free inspections. Saving money while you’re still determining the types of services you may need, or finding the best fit company for you, is especially important so look for companies with no obligation, free inspections and free estimates.

Qualified Technicians, Licenses and Reputation

Finally, you’ll want to do some research into the reputation of the mosquito control company and make sure they have licensed, qualified technicians. These technicians will be wandering around your property, and if they are providing additional pest control services, investigating every nook and cranny of your home, so finding companies with reputable, qualified people is a must. We’ve featured five excellent companies on our list above but make sure to read company reviews on sites such as Google, Facebook or Yelp, especially when dealing with these nationwide companies that have specific franchise operations in your state.

Source: https://gardencourte.com
Categories: Outdoor