When is the Best TIME to Begin Mosquito Protection in the Greater Atlanta Area?
Posted by Mosquito SquadSeptember 26, 2024
Mosquito season in Greater Atlanta can feel relentless, with buzzing and biting pests spoiling outdoor activities for much of the year. But when is the best time to start your mosquito protection to ensure you and your family can enjoy your yard? It depends very much on the local climate, but in general, the best time to protect against mosquitoes is early spring with preventative spraying.
Mosquito Squad of Greater Atlanta recommends scheduling your first mosquito treatment of the year for the beginning of the season. This is when mosquitoes emerge from their winter eggs once temperatures are around 50°F. Here's what you need to know about the local mosquito season, how mosquitoes survive the winter, and when to begin treatments.
When Do Mosquitoes Appear in Greater Atlanta?
Mosquitoes become active when the temperature consistently rises above 50°F. In Greater Atlanta, this can happen as early as March. Mosquitoes flourish in warm and humid climates, which make for ideal breeding conditions in Atlanta from March to October.
Based on averages in temperature, Atlanta's springtime highs crest into the 70s by March and 80s by April. Reasonably, this means that mosquitoes have begun to lay their eggs, with the population swelling exponentially during the same month. Mosquito populations grow exponentially as standing water increases, which is why starting mosquito treatments early, before the full heat of summer, is key.
Do Mosquitoes in Atlanta Survive the Winter?
Yes – mosquitoes in the Greater Atlanta area can' survive winter' using multiple strategies, including over-wintering eggs (Aedes species) or diapause (Culex species). Aedes species lay over-wintering eggs in the fall that 'spring' to life when it starts to warm up again. Culex species enter diapause, preferably in an enclosed space where their size reduces their metabolism to a virtual hibernation during colder months.
This is why many adult mosquitoes do not actually bite during the winter, even though their eggs and larval stages may be present and waiting for conditions to be suitable for hatching. With the onset of spring's warmer temperatures and higher moisture levels due to increased rainfall, the mosquito population often begins to reappear sooner than expected.
How to Time Your Mosquito Protection for Maximum Effectiveness
Beginning your mosquito treatment before the mosquito season gets into full swing is the best way to carry you through the rest of the summer. When you treat your yard before mosquitoes have time to lay eggs and hatch, you will keep the mosquito populations down.
Here are some important factors to consider:
- Early Spring: The best times of year to treat your yard are in March and April, which is before mosquitoes arrive in large numbers. This will stop any existing mosquito eggs from hatching, thus drastically reducing the number of mosquitoes visiting your yard for the entirety of the season.
- Consistent Treatments: It is also very important to continue these treatments regularly since mosquitoes will continue their life cycle all year. Every bite means a new set of eggs to fight against. This is why we recommend continuing treatments every three weeks with the Mosquito Squad.
- Custom Solutions: For lasting results, choose a recurring barrier treatment using our Traditional Mosquito Barrier Treatment or Natural Mosquito Treatments.
Common Questions About Mosquito Season in Atlanta
What month do mosquitoes go away in Georgia?
Mosquitoes typically become inactive with temperatures below 50°F. For us in Georgia, those relatively cool temperatures usually come around October or November but can quickly reappear in the spring.
When is the worst time for mosquitoes in Georgia?
Mosquitoes are most active during the hot, humid months of July and August. During this time, mosquito populations peak, making regular treatments critical for keeping your yard protected.
Can mosquitoes overwinter in Atlanta?
Yes, at least some mosquitoes can overwinter in Atlanta: most leave eggs that survive the winter, but others enter diapause and come roaring back when temperatures warm.
How do I prepare my yard for mosquito season?
Preventing standing water and trimming overgrown vegetation are key steps to reducing mosquito habitats. By following the 7 T's of Mosquito Control, which include tips like tossing unnecessary containers and turning over items that collect water, you can further decrease mosquito breeding sites. Additionally, starting regular mosquito control treatments in early spring helps prevent the population from exploding.
Stay Ahead of Mosquito Season with Mosquito Squad of Greater Atlanta
At Mosquito Squad of Greater Atlanta, we offer year-round mosquito control services that keep your yard safe and comfortable, even before peak mosquito season. With options like our Traditional Mosquito Barrier Treatment and eco-friendly Natural Mosquito Treatments, you can choose the best choice for your home and family.
Don't wait until mosquitoes take over your yard. Contact us today by calling (770) 504-4494 or using our online contact form to schedule your first mosquito treatment of the season. Stay ahead of the mosquitoes and enjoy your outdoor space all year long!