It's important to ask yourself: "What is my goal?"

Many items on the market don't target mosquitoes at the source, meaning they keep coming back.

Gadgets like bug zappers, super-sonic noise machines, or "mosquito fence" barriers often offer little relief, or have other negative impacts. Zappers, for instance, also hurt beneficial insects. And while some devices may have their time and place, it's important to use them responsibly and for the correct pests. 

Focusing on the prevention of pests is a key principle of Integrated Pest Management (IPM), which residents, communities, and governments can practice together. By using IPM strategies, your goal should start with the prevention of pests first, whenever possible.

Sustainable methods of preventing mosquitoes include: removing standing water, responsible landscaping, introducing native natural predators, and using environmentally friendly products. Learn about these methods below.

Every mosquito problem begins with water. In order to prevent mosquitoes around your home, regularly check for stagnant water sources. Use this handy infographic to find potential sites and recommended solutions. 

 Bromeliads are a popular landscaping choice, but many homeowners and landscapers are unaware of the potential hazards some species can pose.

Specific species of bromeliads, particularly exotic species, are common mosquito breeding grounds. Visit our webpage on bromeliads to learn more about your options for bromeliad care or replacement. 2024 research conducted by Mosquito Management analyzed larval samples from bromeliads, and discovered that of the samples taken roughly 40% of larvae found were from vector (or disease-transmitting) species.

Other plants, including aquatic plants can also be potential homes for mosquito larvae. 

Maintaining your plants and gardens is very important for preventing mosquitoes around your home. 

• Garden saucers that go underneath potted plants can hold more than enough water to breed mosquitoes easily. If it's not practical to remove them, regularly collect water from saucers with absorbent materials or a baster to suction excess water out. 
• Trees like oak, elm, cherry, and more can develop tree hollows or tree holes over time. It's important to note if wildlife are using these holes to nest before filling them in, although sand or native air plants can be used to prevent water from collecting in these spots. 
• Aquatic plants like water lettuce, cattails and water hyacinth are not recommended for ornamental ponds or private waterways. Some mosquito species will use these plant's underwater roots to breathe! Water lettuce can also hold additional water in its leaves above the surface, adding even more spots mosquitoes can lay their eggs where predators can't reach. 

"Mosquitofish" (Gambusia holbrooki) are native to Sarasota County and love to eat mosquito larvae. One fish can eat up to 100 of them per day and they can even survive in standing water. These fish are caught and bred by Sarasota County Mosquito Management and are provided to citizens for free.

We are careful to avoid introducing mosquito fish into areas where they will not flourish or won’t help control mosquito populations. If you're unsure if mosquitofish would be right for your water, contact us for an inspection.  

For more information on mosquitofish, click HERE or call us at 311 (941-861-5000 for out of county) and ask for Mosquito Management Services.

To keep mosquitoes out of your house:

• Install or repair screening on windows, doors, porches, and patios.
• Keep doors closed and do not leave them propped open.
• Use air conditioning when possible.

If you have checked around you home and yard for sources of mosquito breeding and cannot locate the source, please contact us for a technician to visit your home.