Have you ever taken a closer look at your rain barrel? You are sure to find countless mosquito larvae there. Don't worry, this is completely normal. The females particularly like to lay their eggs in this place. You can find out why on this page. You will also receive helpful tips on how to get rid of the brood in an environmentally friendly, organic way.
How can you prevent and combat mosquito larvae in the rain barrel?
Mosquito larvae in the rain barrel can be prevented using preventative measures such as fly nets or lids and combated using biological repellents or adding vegetable oil or dishwashing liquid. Water movement, e.g. caused by fish or filters, also prevents breeding.
Why the rain barrel?
Mosquito larvae can only develop well near water. The female mosquitoes instinctively choose nesting places such as puddles, garden ponds or quiet lakes. The main thing is that there is no water movement. Since a rain barrel is often placed in a sheltered location and there is no precipitation for a long time in summer, the animals find the optimal breeding place here. On humid summer days, the number of eggs laid is up to 100 per day. The larvae initially remain unnoticed under the water surface for a few weeks. But then they rise and become an annoying nuisance for every garden owner. But there are ways to prevent egg laying and to combat the hatching brood if necessary.
Preventive measures
Option 1
- Cut the fly net and stretch it over the surface of the water.
- Include downpipe.
- Protect the net from blowing away with a cord around the bin.
- Wrap additional netting around the downspout for protection.
You could also seal your rain barrel with a lid. In this case, too, you have to integrate the downpipe using a narrow opening. However, you can no longer control the water level.
Option 2
Mosquitoes only breed on calm waters. With a filter you destroy the surface tension and make the nesting site unsuitable. Fish also make the water move. Then the larvae cannot stay on the surface of the water and drown in the rainwater.
Combat
- Pour three tablespoons of vegetable oil into the rain barrel.
- Alternatively, use three tablespoons of dishwashing liquid.
- Use biological repellents from specialist retailers.
Note: The first two methods mentioned are very cost-effective, but they worsen the water quality. When using vegetable oil, the water risks becoming rancid. There is also an unpleasant smell.
