Backyard Mosquito Control with Demand® CS
By: Dr. ElRay Roper, Senior Technical Representative, Syngenta
Many homeowners spend a lot of time and money landscaping their yards so they can enjoy them with their family and friends. Nothing can make these activities more uncomfortable than the annoyance of mosquitoes. Aside from the discomfort, there is also concern for mosquito borne diseases, such as encephalitis and West Nile virus.
Along with providing protection from common pests such as ants, roaches, and spiders, with proper licensing and equipment, Pest Management Professionals can also provide mosquito relief.
A study conducted by researchers at the University of Kentucky demonstrated that the application of residual insecticides to mosquito resting areas in residential landscapes can significantly reduce mosquito bites. [Do Backyard Mosquito Sprays Work?: Pest Control Technology; May 2005]
In this trial, the researcher applied the microencapsulated insecticide, Demand® CS with iCAP technology™, with a mist blower sprayer to areas underneath decks, and to the landscape canopy.
The microencapsulated formula in Demand CS helps the insecticide stay on treated surfaces longer, extending time for mosquito pick up. The microcaps adhere to the mosquito, similar to how Styrofoam packing peanuts stick to your arm when you remove the contents of a shipping container.
The active ingredient in Demand CS, lambda-cyhalothrin, quickly defuses across the polymer membrane of the microcap and is absorbed through the insect cuticle. See accompanying image featuring a Demand CS capsule on a mosquito’s leg.
The trial demonstrated successful results and reduced the number of mosquitoes collected in a CDC trap by an average of 59 percent for six weeks. More importantly, the human landing rate was reduced by an average of 73 percent for six weeks.
Following the treatment, a survey was conducted of the owners of the treated properties. The customers found that during the six week period following the treatment they felt more comfortable being outside in their yard, where prior to the treatment they avoided being outside.
Before offering mosquito control, consider the following:
• Know your state and local regulations for mosquito control
• Understand your role in conjunction with other control efforts, such as municipal authorities doing larvacide treatments
• Match customers to the service you are prepared to provide