06/17/2026
Deterring Mosquitoes
Mosquitoes are becoming more populous due to the recent rains. The City of Yoakum has implemented the use of larvicides in storm drains and drainage ditches to assist in the control of the mosquito occupancy and would like to share some helpful tips to help reduce the spread of these tiny pests.
If you are experiencing a large number of mosquitoes in your area, the following actions are recommended: the easiest and best thing anyone can do to help control and reduce the mosquito population is to take a moment to survey your own property to make sure that you are not creating areas of standing water, which are what mosquitoes require to lay eggs and reproduce; check items such as flower pots, bird baths, ornamental pots or basins, and fountains to make sure that there is no standing water for mosquitoes to breed in; one often-forgotten problem area is the rain gutters on your home. Gutters can become clogged with leaves, especially after heavy rains or storms, and then they hold water which becomes a breeding ground for mosquitoes; if you have ornamental fountains and other items designed to hold water, you can apply over-the-counter mosquito-control products that prevent mosquito larvae from growing. These products contain environmentally friendly ingredients and are identical in composition to many of the products that the City now uses to control mosquitoes and can be found at home improvement centers and hardware stores.
Other natural mosquito repellents include citronella plants, marigolds, horsemint, and Ageratum. These plants emit smells that repel mosquitoes and can be grown fairly easily in our area. For more information, go to http://eartheasy.com/blog/2011/04/5-easy-to-grow-mosquito-repelling-plants/ to read more about plants that will help discourage mosquitoes around your home.
Deterring mosquitoes also helps deter the West Nile Virus. The “Four D’s” should be implemented to defend against both:
DUSK & DAWN are the times of day to limit outdoor activities. This is when infected mosquitoes are most active.
DRESS in long sleeves and pants when outside. For extra protection, thin clothing can be sprayed with repellent.
DEET is an ingredient to look for in an insect repellent. Follow label instructions and always wear repellent when outdoors.
DRAIN standing water in old tires, flowerpots, and clogged rain gutters. These are mosquito-breeding sites.
Your friends and neighbors will appreciate you taking care of your property and helping to deter the swell of the mosquito population in Yoakum.
