Deadly Mosquito Exterminator Doubles as a Pest Eradicator - Boasts Multiple Unforeseen Practical Applications
Mosquitoes and fungus gnats can be a nuisance, but there's a simple solution to keep them at bay: Mosquito Dunks and Bits. These eco-friendly larvicide treatments use Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (Bti) to prevent mosquito and fungus gnat larvae from growing.
Outdoor Use
For outdoor pest control, Mosquito Dunks can be placed in any standing water sources where mosquitoes breed, such as small bodies of water like ponds, rain barrels, birdbaths, garden buckets, old watering cans, or any stagnant water in your yard.
To create a controlled larvicide environment outdoors, you can make a "Bucket of Doom". Fill a bucket partially with water and drop in a Mosquito Dunk tablet or a portion of one for smaller containers. This setup helps stop mosquito breeding effectively.
To prevent dilution by rain and access by animals, use buckets with lids drilled with holes for mosquitoes to enter, and cover the bucket with mesh or hardware cloth if desired. Adding debris or sticks in the water can make it more attractive for mosquitoes to lay eggs and increase dunk effectiveness.
Indoor Use
For indoor pest control, Mosquito Dunks can be used in pet water dishes that aren't changed frequently, plant saucers, or any indoor containers that collect water and might harbour mosquito larvae. The principles are similar: ensure stagnant water is treated with a dunk tablet to interrupt the mosquito lifecycle safely inside your home.
Fungus gnats are another common indoor pest, especially in overwatered houseplants. To control fungus gnats, let the soil dry and mix Mosquito Dunks or Bits in water. This treatment can help prevent further infestations.
Safety and Dosage
Mosquito Dunks and Bits are safe for pets, wildlife, and people because the bacterium targets only mosquito and fungus gnat larvae. You can break the tablets to regulate dosage for smaller water sources. For a gallon (3.8 L) of water, use 4 tablespoons of Mosquito Bits or a quarter of a Mosquito Dunk. One teaspoon of Mosquito Bits can cover up to 25 square feet (2.3 square meters) of water.
Purchasing and Reapplication
Mosquito Dunks and Bits can be easily purchased on Amazon. Applications of Mosquito Dunks last for 30 days, and you can reapply weekly for continuous prevention. For fungus gnat control in houseplants, let the soil dry and reapply the Mosquito Dunk tea weekly.
Expert Insight
Kathleen Walters, who joined the platform as a Content Editor in 2024, has a background in gardening and public history. She emphasizes the importance of using Mosquito Dunks and Bits for both outdoor and indoor pest control: "Place Mosquito Dunks in any standing water indoors or outdoors where mosquitoes breed; maintain the water in a controlled container if needed; cover or secure containers to prevent accidental access; and replace dunks as needed to continuously prevent larvae development."
In addition to simple, yellow sticky traps for catching adult fungus gnats, Mosquito Dunks and Bits are effective solutions for controlling mosquitoes and fungus gnats, making your home and garden a more enjoyable place to be.
- To keep fungus gnat larvae at bay in the home, you can mix Mosquito Dunks or Bits in water and use this solution on plant saucers, pet water dishes, or any indoor containers that collect water.
- For a balanced home-and-garden lifestyle, consider using Mosquito Dunks or Bits in outdoor standing water sources like ponds, birdbaths, or garden buckets, and in indoor containers that might harbour mosquito larvae, to create a healthier environment for both plants and pets.
