A myth that needs to be busted: The Yeast-Sugar Trap.
A popular guide to building a trap can be found online. Cut open a plastic bottle and fill it with a mixture of water, sugar, and brewer’s yeast. This is supposed to produce carbon dioxide (CO₂), which is supposed to attract mosquitoes.
Scientific Truth: This method (see photo above, with variations using fruit or honey) is very ineffective outdoors. The amount of CO₂ produced by the yeast is minimal compared to the amount humans release through breathing and skin. It works well in small, enclosed spaces, but it won’t solve the problem of infestations in your garden.
3-step strategy for your garden:
Check: Empty the saucers of flowerpots, buckets, and plastic containers every 5 days to remove accumulated rainwater. Tiger mosquitoes cannot breed without water.
BTI Tablets: Place a BTI tablet in drains and other areas where water collects every 15 days.
Setting up Ovi traps: Place Ovi traps in shady areas and low vegetation where mosquitoes like to rest and lay eggs.
