How To Get Rid of Mosquitoes in Charlotte, NC

If you are looking to use natural mosquito repellent, consider planting the following in and around your outdoor space:

• Citronella: Citronella is perhaps one of the most well-known plants for repelling mosquitoes. It contains citronella oil, which has a strong scent that mosquitoes dislike. Plant citronella in pots or directly in the ground in areas where you spend time outdoors to help deter mosquitoes.
• Lavender: Lavender is not only prized for its calming aroma but also for its ability to repel mosquitoes. Its fragrant flowers emit a scent that mosquitoes find unpleasant, making it a beautiful and functional addition to your garden or patio.
• Marigold: Marigolds are colorful flowers that contain pyrethrum, a natural insect repellent. Planting marigolds in your garden beds or around outdoor seating areas can help keep mosquitoes away while adding a pop of color to your landscape.
• Rosemary: Rosemary is an herb with a pleasant scent that repels mosquitoes. Plant rosemary in pots or as a hedge near entry points to your home or outdoor living spaces to discourage mosquitoes from lingering in those areas.
• Catnip: Catnip, a member of the mint family, contains nepetalactone, a compound that repels mosquitoes. While it may attract cats, it effectively deters mosquitoes, making it a useful plant to have in your yard or garden.
• Basil: Basil is another herb with mosquito-repelling properties. Plant basil in pots or in garden beds to not only ward off mosquitoes but also enjoy fresh basil leaves for culinary purposes.
• Lemon Balm: Lemon balm, also known as Melissa, has a lemony scent that mosquitoes dislike. It's easy to grow and can be planted in containers or in the ground to help create a mosquito-free outdoor environment.
• Scented Geraniums: Scented geraniums come in various fragrances such as lemon, rose, and citronella. These aromatic plants emit scents that mosquitoes find unappealing, making them a lovely addition to your garden or patio.
• Mint: Mint plants, including spearmint and peppermint, have a strong fragrance that repels mosquitoes. Plant mint in containers or as ground cover to deter mosquitoes while enjoying its fresh scent and culinary uses.
• Chrysanthemums: Chrysanthemums contain pyrethrin, a natural insecticide found in many mosquito repellent products. Planting chrysanthemums in your garden can help control mosquito populations while adding beauty to your landscape.

Mosquitoes require water to breed, and female mosquitoes are known to lay their eggs in a variety of stagnant water sources. Identifying and eliminating these common mosquito breeding areas around your home can help reduce mosquito populations significantly.

Here are some typical places where adult mosquitoes breed:

• Ponds and Water Gardens: Natural or man-made ponds, water gardens, and decorative water features are prime breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Stagnant water in these areas provides an ideal environment for mosquitoes to lay their eggs and for larvae to develop.
• Bird Baths: Bird baths are popular additions to gardens but can become breeding sites for mosquitoes if not maintained properly. Change the water in bird baths frequently, ideally every few days, to prevent mosquito larvae from hatching.
• Clogged Gutters: Leaves, debris, and standing water in clogged gutters create an attractive breeding site for mosquitoes. Regularly clean and unclog gutters to ensure proper drainage and eliminate stagnant water.
• Tires: Old tires left outdoors can collect rainwater and become stagnant breeding sites for mosquitoes. Dispose of unused tires or store them in a way that prevents water accumulation.
• Buckets and Containers: Any containers, buckets, pots, or cans left outdoors that collect water can serve as mosquito breeding sites. Empty and turn over these items regularly or store them indoors to prevent water accumulation.
• Pet Water Bowls: Mosquitoes can lay eggs in pet water bowls if the water is left stagnant for extended periods. Change your pet's water frequently and clean the bowls regularly to avoid mosquito breeding.
• Toys and Pool Covers: Children's toys left outside and pool covers that collect water can also become breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Store toys indoors when not in use, and ensure pool covers are properly drained and maintained.
• Plant Saucers: Water-filled saucers under potted plants can attract mosquitoes. Empty excess water from saucers or use saucers with drainage holes to prevent water accumulation.
• Low-lying Areas: Areas in your yard where water tends to pool after rainfall or irrigation can become breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Improve drainage or fill low-lying areas to prevent water from collecting.
• Unused Containers: Any unused containers, such as barrels, cans, or buckets, stored outdoors can collect rainwater and provide a habitat for mosquito larvae. Store these items upside down or indoors to prevent water accumulation.

By regularly inspecting and addressing these common mosquito breeding areas around your home, you can significantly reduce mosquito populations and minimize the risk of mosquito-borne diseases.

In Charlotte, North Carolina, several mosquito species are prevalent due to the region's climate and environment. The most common types of mosquitoes found in Mecklenburg County and the surrounding areas include:

• Aedes albopictus (Asian Tiger Mosquito): This aggressive daytime-biting mosquito is recognizable by its black and white striped legs and body. Aedes albopictus is known for breeding in small containers and urban areas, making it a common nuisance around homes and neighborhoods.
• Aedes aegypti (Yellow Fever Mosquito): Similar in appearance to Aedes albopictus, Aedes aegypti is also a daytime biter and can transmit diseases such as Zika virus, dengue fever, and chikungunya. It prefers urban areas and can breed in small water sources like flower pots, tires, and bird baths.
• Culex pipiens (Northern House Mosquito): Culex pipiens is a nighttime-biting mosquito commonly found in urban and suburban areas. It breeds in stagnant water sources such as storm drains, clogged gutters, and artificial containers. This species can transmit West Nile virus and other diseases.
• Culex quinquefasciatus (Southern House Mosquito): Similar to Culex pipiens, Culex quinquefasciatus is a nighttime-biting mosquito that breeds in stagnant water sources. It is commonly found in residential areas, particularly in the southern United States, and can transmit diseases like West Nile virus and St. Louis encephalitis.
• Anopheles quadrimaculatus (Common Malaria Mosquito): Anopheles mosquitoes are known for their potential to transmit malaria, although malaria is not endemic in Charlotte or most parts of the United States. Anopheles quadrimaculatus breeds in freshwater habitats such as ponds, marshes, and ditches.
• Psorophora columbiae (Eastern Gallinipper): Although not as common as some other species, Psorophora columbiae is a large, aggressive mosquito species known for its painful bites. It breeds in flooded areas, including pastures, swamps, and woodland pools, and is most active during the summer months.

It's important to note that while these are among the most common mosquito species in North and South Carolina, there are other species present in the region as well. Implementing mosquito control measures, such as eliminating breeding sites, using repellents, and maintaining a mosquito-free environment, can help reduce the impact of these mosquitoes on outdoor activities and public health.

Avoiding mosquito bites requires a combination of preventive measures and protective actions. Here are some effective tips to help you steer clear of mosquito bites:

• Use Mosquito Repellent: Apply an EPA-approved mosquito repellent containing ingredients like DEET, picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535. Follow the instructions on the label for safe and effective application.
• Wear Protective Clothing: When outdoors, especially during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active, wear long-sleeved shirts, long pants, socks, and closed-toe shoes. Choose lightweight and loose-fitting clothing to minimize skin exposure.
• Install Screens: Keep windows, doors, and vents covered with screens to prevent mosquitoes from entering your home. Repair any damaged screens promptly to maintain a barrier against insects.
• Avoid Peak Mosquito Hours: Mosquitoes are most active during dawn and dusk, so try to limit outdoor activities during these times. If you must be outdoors, take extra precautions by using repellents and wearing protective clothing.
• Eliminate Standing Water: Mosquitoes breed in standing water, so regularly empty and clean containers like flower pots, bird baths, gutters, and pet water bowls. Ensure that outdoor items like toys and tires don't collect water.
• Avoid Strong Scents: Perfumes, scented lotions, and heavily scented soaps can attract mosquitoes. Opt for unscented or lightly scented products when spending time outdoors.
• Keep Yard Maintenance: Trim overgrown vegetation, mow the lawn regularly, and remove leaf litter and debris from your yard. Mosquitoes often hide in dense vegetation and shaded areas.
• Use Mosquito-Repelling Plants: Plant mosquito-repelling plants like citronella, lavender, marigold, and rosemary in your garden or outdoor living spaces. These plants naturally deter mosquitoes with their scent.
• Cover Food and Drinks: When dining outdoors, cover food and drinks to prevent attracting mosquitoes. Use mesh food covers and keep sugary beverages and fruits covered to avoid drawing insects.
• Use Fans: Install fans on your patio or outdoor seating areas. The airflow can help deter mosquitoes, as they are weak fliers and find it challenging to land in windy conditions.
• Avoid Dark Clothing: Mosquitoes are attracted to dark colors, so opt for light-colored clothing when spending time outdoors to make yourself less appealing to these pests.

By incorporating these strategies into your routine, you can significantly reduce your chances of getting bitten by mosquitoes and enjoy outdoor activities more comfortably.