Mosquito Control: What You Need to Know About Larvicides
Larvicides are a type of insecticide used to control mosquitoes indoors and outdoors around your home. They work by killing mosquito larvae and pupae before they can grow into biting adults. When used according to product label instructions, larvicides do not harm people, pets, or the environment.
Select a larvicide
Larvicides come in many forms:
• Liquids
• Tablets
• Pellets
• Granules
• Briquettes
• Bits
Apply larvicides where mosquitoes lay eggs
Use larvicides where mosquitoes lay eggs to help reduce the number of mosquitoes in an area. Mosquitoes lay eggs in items that hold water:
• Buckets and rain barrels
• Fountains
• Gutters or downspouts
• Non-chlorinated swimming pools
• Pool covers that collect water
• Tires
• Tree holes
Treat standing water
Use larvicides to treat standing water that:
• Will not be used for drinking
• Cannot be covered, dumped or removed
When using larvicides
Follow the instructions on the label. Do not apply more than directed or reapply more often than instructed.
A dunk is placed in a fountain to kill young mosquitoes.
Information on insecticides and health:
The Environmental Protection Agency oversees the registration of insecticides.
The National Pesticide Information Center (NPIC) provides information online or through a toll-free number, 1-800-858-7378.