Mosquitoes are more than just annoying pests—they can also carry serious diseases like West Nile and Zika. That’s why it’s important to prevent them from breeding in your yard. Mosquitoes need only an inch of standing water to lay eggs, and one mosquito can quickly turn into hundreds.

One of the simplest ways to keep mosquitoes from ruining your summer is to get rid of standing water; since mosquitoes can breed almost anywhere water collects.

Be sure to check these common problem areas:

• Remove discarded tires from your property. If tires are used for swings or playground equipment, drill holes in the bottom so water can drain.
• Turn over or remove water-holding containers such as tin cans and plastic jugs.
• Drill holes in the bottom of unused containers so water cannot collect.
• Turn over plastic wading pools and wheelbarrows when not in use.
• Eliminate any standing water on your property.
• Change birdbath water weekly and clean the bath to remove organic matter, eggs, and larvae.
• Clear leaves and twigs from eavestroughs, storm drains, and roof gutters throughout the summer.
• Check flat roofs regularly and remove standing water.
• Remove dense brush and weeds where mosquitoes rest during the day.
• Turn over compost piles regularly.
• Fill in low areas in lawns where water may collect.
• Promptly throw away raked leaves and decaying fruit, such as fallen apples or berries. If not composting them, store them in a closed container until disposal.
• Add a filter to your pond to keep the water moving.

Tree and shrub spraying is another effective way to reduce mosquitoes in your yard. Aronica Plant Health Care offers mosquito and tick spraying that is highly effective and safe for your family and pets. To set up a tick and mosquito spraying program for your yard, call Aronica Plant Health Care at (631) 928-9000.