Mosquitoes and ticks are a concern because they can transmit disease. Luckily, effective control measures exist that do not require use of harmful toxic pesticides. The following is a list of suggested products to be used as indicated after habitat modifications have been made. Please research products carefully and always follow label directions exactly.
The Mississippi Department of Health recommends these strategies for mosquito prevention in landscapes:
- Pick up and haul away all trash piles, broken down washing machines, junk cars, bottles and cans, and related items from around houses.
- Avoid having open water areas or containers around the house such as puddles, open water tanks, damaged water pipes, tires, etc. that might breed mosquitoes.
- Fill tree holes with mortar.
- Drill holes in the bottom of tire swings.
- Empty or change water in pet dishes, bird baths, horse troughs, etc. at least once a week.
- Keep roof gutters clean.
- Avoid accumulation of decaying material and garbage in and around the home.
- Cover water tanks.
- Support natural enemies of insects like birds, frogs, lizards, and fish.
- Fix any low spots in the yard that hold water for long-term control.
mosquito traps
mosquito larvicides
Least toxic natural control Products
Adult Mosquito & Tick Control Examples - Habitat Modification, Traps and Larvicides should always be prioritized over spraying.
Mosquito Barrier
Mosquito Cure
EcoExempt MC
Essentria IC3
Tick Killz
Mosquito Barrier
Mosquito Cure
EcoExempt MC
Essentria IC3
Tick Killz
Lists are for educational purposes and suggestions only, not an endorsement of a specific company, product or brand.
resources
Beyond Pesticides Mosquito Management and Insect Borne Diseases
Utah Physicians for a Healthy Environment Report on Mosquito Spraying
How pesticides can actually increase mosquito numbers
An Interview With Experts: Are Backyard Mosquito Sprays Safe and Effective?
City of Boulder, Colorado Ecological Mosquito Management
Toxic ‘forever chemicals’ found in pesticide used on millions of acres when spraying for mosquitoes
Try the 'Bucket of Doom' to eliminate mosquitoes without harmful pesticides
How to Prevent Tick Bites Without Toxic Pesticides
