Mosquitoes are controversial. Well, let
’s just say that methods to deter mosquitoes are controversial.
At least that’s what I discovered when a few gardening friends of
mine got into a heated discussion regarding the best methods of
deterring mosquitoes.
Mosquitoes are controversial. Well, let’s just say that methods to deter mosquitoes are controversial. At least that’s what I discovered when a few gardening friends of mine got into a heated discussion regarding the best methods of deterring mosquitoes.
The mosquito is one of the few garden bugs that are more of a problem for the home gardeners than the garden itself. They don’t eat plants nor harm the lawn, but that doesn’t make them any less of a pest. Anyone who has been eaten alive by them would certainly vouch for that.
Also, with reports linking mosquitoes with the spread of the West Nile virus, more people are taking a serious look at this pesky critter.
Simple things first. To avoid being a mosquito magnet, avoid wearing dark clothing. Also, avoid wearing perfumes or colognes. Wear white and, if you can, avoid breathing.
Yes, as silly as it sounds, mosquitoes are attracted to the carbon dioxide, heat and moisture that is generated from breathing. That’s the premise around a new $500 product making rounds with names, such as the Mosquito Power Trap or Mosquito Magnet. The contraption utilizes a propane gas tank and air to generate carbon dioxide, heat and moisture to attract and kill mosquitoes.
Much of the heated discussion among my gardening friends revolved around this expensive contraption. Some swore it worked, while others maintained it was a bunch of hot air. Whether it does or not, one gardening friend in Alaska (where mosquitoes grow as big as hummingbirds, he jokes), says the devices are flying off the shelves of our 50th state. Since I haven’t tried the device myself, I remain neutral.
However, I can tell you about scientific evidence that has shown that those electronic bug zappers do little to help against mosquitoes. One study found that only 6.4-percent of the catch were mosquitoes, and only half of those were the blood-feeding female mosquitoes.
Mixed success comes from those popular citronella candles that you can pick up at almost any store. While it has been found that citronella oil, which comes from the citrosa plant, can help deter mosquitoes, studies also say that one must stay within the smoky plume of those candles in order to get any prevention.
The most sensible idea I picked up during this discussion on mosquito deterrents was to place water in a white dinner plate, and add a couple drops of Lemon Fresh Joy dishwashing soap. It is said to be a great mosquito trap and killer. Can’t wait to try it.
Also, eliminate standing sources of water. Just the other day, I found that a couple of my large terra cotta pots had built-in, hidden sauce pans where water always collects. Look for hidden water caches, such as containers or even tire swings.
Finally, personal mosquito protection can always from chemical repellents. Be aware, though, that most chemical repellents contain DEET. It’s usually best to apply to clothing rather than skin. Avoid using DEET products on synthetic materials, such as nylon since DEET will melt them.
Also, I’ve had mixed success using Avon’s Skin So Soft as a repellent. Better success came from a homemade concoction of unscented lotion mixed with essential oils of lavender and citronella.
Filoli will present its Fifth Annual Botanical Art Exhibit this fall. Filoli is a unique and appropriate venue for this beautiful art form.
The exhibition, while adhering to high standards of botanical accuracy and skilled use of media, invites work in any two-dimensional medium that reflects the rich tradition of botanical art. All artwork will be juried by slide. Coinciding with this year’s exhibit, Filoli will host the annual meeting of the American Society of Botanical Artists. For a prospectus and entry form please call the Education Office at (650) 364-8300 x233. Deadline for submission is June 27.
