You’ve burned all of your citronella candles and might feel helpless against these blood sucking insects. Is there any effective way to control Mosquitoes and Ticks? Actually, there are a few ways that can prove highly effective in minimizing ticks and mosquitoes in your yard.

Is your backyard a breeding ground? Mosquitoes and Ticks prefer shaded areas of the yard to avoid dehydration. Mosquitoes require these moist habitats to breed. An old watering can, stagnant bird baths and clogged gutters (as well as old tires, etc.) are all breeding grounds. The first step in controlling Mosquitoes is to address these issues.

Ticks have fewer moisture requirements but prefer tall grass/thick shrubbery, stone walls, un-raked leaf litter and brush piles. Keeping grass mowed will make your yard less inviting to ticks. Controlling rodent populations is also important as mice provide a necessary meal for developing ticks (exterior mouse baiting available).

Finally, shrubs, shaded areas, and the perimeter of the yard can be treated using a combination of an Adulticide and a Growth Regulator to address all stages of tick development. A Blower-Mister is the most efficient means of treating these sites as it can penetrate foliage and provide consistent coverage. A granular application to your lawn will not yield the same results.

The final aspect of avoiding Tick and Mosquito Borne illnesses is AWARENESS. Use caution when traversing into woods or tall grass. Check your pants carefully after working outdoors. Apply a repellent to discourage mosquitoes, or better yet- cover up in long sleeves, pants and a hat.

Contact PEST CONTROL STAR  for Mosquito and Tick Treatments in MA at 508-963-1294

F.A.Q. REGARDING MOSQUITO AND TICK CONTROL 

Using the most effective products and equipment is the key to our success. We combine an adulticide ( Active Ingredient: Bifenthrin) with an Insect Growth Regulator (Nyguard IGR) to treat all stages of insects. We use high powered Stihl Blower Misters to apply a targeted, consistent mist to all areas prone to infestation. Treatment sites include: Yard Perimeter/Woodline, Stone Walls, Shrubbery/Foliage, Mulch Beds, Leaf Litter/Brush Piles, etc.  Mosquitoes & Ticks prefer cover and shaded areas of the yard so treating the grass isn’t always necessary.  In a recent study, 67% of ticks in the yard were found at the perimeter/first two feet of wood line, so we target this zone. 

*Products will not harm established plants. Please notify us of any edible plants/trees to avoid. 

What about organics?

Organic Mosquito Control companies have gained popularity primarily because there is no licensing required in MA. While most organic products have quasi-proven short term results, our exclusive Mosquito and Tick Protection Program affects entire generations of insects.

Is It Safe for My Children/Pets and the Environment?

You may resume normal use of your yard one hour after the application. Both products are low dose/low odor and water based. Our Growth Regulator has “Reduced Risk Status” with the E.P.A. for its “low impact on human health, lower toxicity to non-target organisms and low potential for ground water contamination.” We also take precautions to avoid flowering plants that attract honey bees and conduct applications in the evening or early morning. Please be sure to put away toys/pet dishes in the yard and close windows on the first floor during/immediately following application.

How Long Does It Last?

Our products have a residual life of 30-45 days when applied outside. The product is photo-stable meaning sunlight will not degrade the effects unlike other insecticides. Treatments will render entire generations of Mosquitoes and Ticks sterile REDUCING breeding and population (NOTE: this is not mosquito “elimination” and complete control may not be feasible. Treatments are scheduled 45 days apart and 3 treatments provide optimal results.

• Pest Control