Controlling Mosquitos

• Keep your lawn mowed as short as is practical and mow more frequently. Lawn care professionals recommend mowing as frequently as every three or four days. Shorter grass prevents mosquito harborage and require less water for you lawn.
  
  
• Keep all ornamental shrubs and bushes trimmed and pruned to open them up to light and air flow. This will not only give mosquitoes one less place to hide, but will promote growth and vigor in the plant.
  
  
• Cut back as far as possible, all low, dense under-growth surrounding your yard. This is where mosquitoes go to hide during the day.
  
  
• Have large trees trimmed to allow sunlight to penetrate dark, damp areas.
  
  
• Plan outdoor activities and parties during daylight hours or later in the evening. Many mosquitoes are most active at dusk and dawn and for about an hour after each time period. However, in areas with dense foliage and significant shade you will find mosquitoes active and aggressive any time of the day that attractants are present.
  
  
• Check your French drains, if they appear to be holding water seek the advice of a professional to ensure the system is operating properly. To avoid standing water in the areas created by elbows and other connectors, which are below the drain lines place a small amount of very fine gravel, which will fill the void. You should always check with a professional in this field before modifying any drains on your property.
  
  
• When the ground beneath raised decks, gazebo?s, storage buildings etc. is uneven or does not drain away form the structure it is advised that you correct the pitch to insure drainage. Additionally it is wise to provide cross ventilation to enhance the drying time of accumulated water and moisture.