After decades serving Bay Area homeowners from Richmond to Petaluma to Marin, our technicians have learned exactly what works for mosquito prevention — and what’s just noise. Here are the practical, field-tested tips that actually make a difference.
Tip 1: The Two-Week Rule for Standing Water
Mosquitoes need standing water to breed, but the key detail most people miss is the timeline. Most mosquito species need 7–14 days of undisturbed standing water to complete larval development. Any water source that sits still for more than a week becomes a potential breeding site — even small amounts like saucers under potted plants, clogged gutters, or a tipped bucket.
Do a weekly walk-around of your property and empty or refresh any standing water you find. This single habit eliminates more breeding sites than any spray program.
Tip 2: Your Gutters Might Be the Problem
Clogged gutters holding leaf debris and water are one of the most overlooked mosquito breeding sources. A gutter clogged with debris can hold enough water for a significant Culex mosquito population. Clean your gutters in spring and fall, and consider gutter guards if you have significant leaf fall.
Tip 3: Aedes Mosquitoes Need Almost Nothing to Breed
If you’re being bitten during the day (not just at dusk and dawn), you likely have Aedes mosquitoes — daytime biters that can breed in extremely small amounts of water. Look for: plant saucers, pet water dishes changed infrequently, decorative containers, tarps that collect water, and drains that stay moist.
Tip 4: Fix Drainage Low Spots
Low spots in lawns and landscaping that collect water after rain or irrigation are persistent breeding sources. Improving drainage in these areas — whether through regrading, adding drainage, or adjusting irrigation — eliminates the source entirely.
Tip 5: Know When to Call a Professional
If you’ve addressed standing water sources and mosquito pressure remains high, it’s time for a professional assessment. ATCO’s mosquito management program uses an IPM approach — inspection, targeted treatment, and monitoring — to help homeowners enjoy their yards. Contact us for an evaluation.