Ah, summer in Ontario—where the barbecues are hot, the patios are lively, and the mosquitoes are… relentless. If you’ve ever found yourself swatting away these uninvited guests during an evening outdoors, you’re not alone. Let’s dig into why mosquitoes are such a nuisance in our province and what you can do about it.
Why Are Mosquitoes So Bad in Ontario?
Ontario’s warm, humid summers create the perfect breeding ground for mosquitoes. These pesky insects lay their eggs in stagnant water, which can be found in everything from birdbaths to clogged gutters. Even a small amount of standing water can become a mosquito nursery.
Recent weather patterns have only made things worse. Warm temperatures in early spring can awaken hibernating mosquitoes, while rainstorms provide the ideal breeding spots. This one-two punch often leads to a surge in mosquito populations throughout the summer months (cottagelife.com).
The Health Risks: More Than Just Itchy Bites
While mosquito bites are annoying, they can also pose serious health risks. Mosquitoes are known carriers of diseases such as West Nile Virus, which has been present in Ontario since 2001. Although most infected individuals experience mild or no symptoms, severe cases can lead to neurological complications (blog.animalogic.ca).
How to Protect Yourself and Your Yard
Eliminate Standing Water: Regularly check your property for items that can collect water, such as flower pots, buckets, and old tires. Empty and clean birdbaths and pet water dishes at least once a week.
Maintain Your Lawn: Keep your grass trimmed and remove excess vegetation. Mosquitoes like to rest in tall grass and shrubs during the day.
Use Mosquito-Repelling Plants: Consider planting mosquito-repelling flora like lavender, rosemary, or citronella. These plants can help deter mosquitoes naturally.
Install Screens: Ensure that windows and doors have tight-fitting screens to keep mosquitoes from entering your home.
Apply Insect Repellents: Use EPA-registered insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus when spending time outdoors.
Professional Mosquito Control Services in Ontario
If mosquitoes continue to be a problem despite your best efforts, it may be time to bring in the pros. That’s where we come in.
At Dr. Green, we offer targeted mosquito and tick control services designed to help Ontario homeowners reclaim their yards. Our treatments are timed with mosquito breeding cycles to reduce populations at the source—no gimmicks, just expert care and proven results.
We use Health Canada-approved products that are effective and family-friendly, so you can enjoy your outdoor space without worry. Whether you’re dealing with a full-blown invasion or just want a little peace of mind during patio season, we’ve got your back.
Final Thoughts
Mosquitoes are an unfortunate part of summer in Ontario, but with proactive measures and professional help, you can reclaim your outdoor spaces. By eliminating breeding grounds, protecting yourself with repellents, and calling in the experts when needed, you’ll be well on your way to a more enjoyable, mosquito-free summer.
Stay safe and enjoy the season!
