Mosquito Control in the Carolinas: The Unique Challenges and Solutions

As long-time mosquito exterminators living in and working in the Carolinas, especially the Lowcountry, we know that some of the things we love most about our home come at a pesty cost, particularly when it comes to mosquitoes. The Carolinas are known for their warm summer weather and are home to some of the most beautiful and extensive coastal plains, salt marshes, and seaside rivers and creeks. 

While these features draw many people to live and vacation in our region, they are a double-edged sword in mosquito control. With nearly 1.2 million people living in the coastal plains of North Carolina and around 1.3 million people living around the coastal areas of South Carolina, mosquito control is no small feat. 

Challenges of Mosquito Control in the Carolinas:

Through the lens of a mosquito exterminator, let’s take a closer look at some factors that play into the difficulty of keeping these pesky critters at bay in our area.

Warm, Humid Climate

Mosquitoes thrive in warm, humid climates, and the Carolinas have just that. The Carolinas are known for their hot and humid summers. Combining warm temperatures with high humidity creates the perfect breeding ground and ideal environment for mosquitoes. 

An Abundance of Standing Water

Mosquitoes need standing water to breed. Throughout the Carolinas, mosquitoes have their pick of breeding location options, including;

Rainwater:

The Carolinas receive an average of 40 inches of rainfall per year. This rainwater can collect in puddles, birdbaths, flowerpots, rain gutters, and other containers.

Streams and Rivers:

The Carolinas are home to many streams and rivers, all of which can provide the perfect breeding grounds for mosquitoes.

Saltwater marshes:

The Carolinas are famous for their saltwater marshes. These marshes are home to large populations of mosquitoes, including those that can transmit serious diseases, such as West Nile Virus and Zika Virus.

Living in the Carolinas, knowing the factors that attract mosquitoes is important. By taking certain precautions, you can ensure that you and your family remain safe.

Solutions for Mosquito Control in the Carolinas:

We know that many of the things that attract mosquitoes to this great area also keep our residents here and bring our visitors back for more. While we can’t and wouldn’t want to change the Carolinas’ geography and climate, we can do a few things to keep mosquitoes under control.

Plant Mosquito Repellent Plants

Incorporating mosquito-repellent plants into your garden or around your home is one great way to keep the mosquito population around your home low. Many mosquito repellent plants serve more purposes than just warding off mosquitoes. Consider planting them around your home to see pest control results, and get creative by adding some to your meals or growing something special for your furry friend. Easy-to-grow, mosquito-repellent plants include:

• Lavender
• Sage
• Mint
• Basil
• Lemongrass
• Catnip
  

Find more natural mosquito-repellent options here.

Use Fans to Keep Air Moving

Mosquitoes love warm, stagnant air. Keep fans running in your home to keep the air circulating. If you have summer plans to relax on the porch or host an outdoor patio dinner, consider placing a few fans outside to ensure mosquitoes don’t crash your party.

Drain Standing Water Around Your Home

One of the best ways to keep mosquitoes away from your home is to be sure you have no standing water nearby. Keep rain gutters clean so water can flow seamlessly, empty and change the water in bird baths regularly, and check your home for any other containers that may hold water following rain.

Install Screens on All Windows and Doors

We all love a Carolina night on the porch, whether you are simply relaxing or enjoying some delicious Carolina BBQ. To keep mosquitoes out of your home on nights like these, ensure you have installed screens on all windows and doors. You may even consider screening on your porch as an extra precaution.

Hire Professional Mosquito Control

When other methods fail, or your mosquito issue gets too out of control, our mosquito exterminators are always here to help. We offer various mosquito control services, including barrier treatments, misting systems, and neighborhood mosquito control.

You can read more on understanding points of prevention when it comes to mosquito control or contact us today at Palmetto Mosquito Control. Contact one of our professional exterminators to learn more about how we can help you take back the outdoors.