How to Get Rid of Mosquito Larvae in African Mallow Shrub Water: A Complete Guide

As a proud grower of beautiful African mallow shrubs, I’ve had my fair share of battles with pesky mosquito larvae infesting the water that collects in the leaves and stems of these plants. Not only are mosquitoes annoying but they can also transmit dangerous diseases, so controlling their population is crucial.

In this comprehensive guide, I’ll share the methods I’ve found to be most effective for getting rid of mosquito larvae specifically in African mallow shrub water, without harming the plants

Understanding Mosquito Breeding Habits

The first step is getting familiar with the mosquito life cycle. Mosquitoes lay eggs on the surface of stagnant water bodies. Within a day or two, the eggs hatch into larvae (or “wigglers”), which live in the water and feed on microorganisms and debris.

After about 5-7 days, the larvae transform into pupae, and a few days later, into adult mosquitoes. So targeting the larvae stage is key before they can mature into biting, disease-spreading adults.

African mallow’s broad leaves and furrowed stems are prime real estate for mosquitoes The nooks and crannies trap water, creating ideal breeding sites if left unchecked

Manual Removal

One of the simplest ways to get rid of larvae is to manually search for and remove them. I inspect the leaves, stems, and base of my African mallows thoroughly each week and use a turkey baster to suck up and discard any larvae I find. While tedious, this direct removal immediately cuts down their population.

Tip the Water Out

Mosquitoes need standing water to breed. Tip or pour out any water collected in leaf axils, furrows, or plant saucers to disrupt their life cycle. This forces the adults to find other sites to lay eggs, keeping your plants drier.

Introduce Predators

Natural predators like fish, dragonfly nymphs, and water beetles will gobble up mosquito larvae. Add a few gambusia (aka mosquitofish) or guppies to water features near your African mallows. You can also collect and add any mosquito-eating creatures found in local ponds. Let them feast!

Use Larvicides

For serious infestations, larvicides specifically kill mosquito larvae while safeguarding plants, pets, and people. Apply BTI dunks or bits containing Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis in standing water. Mosquito dunks provide 30 days of control. Use as directed.

Drain or Fill Standing Water

Eliminate any areas of standing water around your landscape. Drain plant saucers, empty rain buckets, fill ruts, and unclog blocked drains or gutters holding water where mosquitoes breed. Removing standing water means fewer places for them to reproduce.

Modify the Environment

Make the area less inviting for mosquitoes. Prune African mallow leaves and stems that hold water pockets. Plant water-loving plants like papyrus around ponds to absorb excess moisture. Install a pump or fountain to keep water moving.

Apply Horticultural Oils

A thin layer of horticultural oil on the water’s surface suffocates mosquito larvae and eggs. Use lightweight summer oil and reapply after rain or watering. While not a standalone solution, oils help reduce larvae numbers.

Insect Growth Regulators

Insect growth regulator products like methoprene pellets (e.g. Mosquito Bits) mimic mosquito hormones and prevent larvae from maturing into biting adults. Apply every 30 days for ongoing control. They are safe for plants and pets when used as directed.

Encourage Natural Predators

Draw in mosquito predators like birds, bats, dragonflies, and spiders by providing habitat like bushes, nectar plants, and water sources. The more predators around, the fewer mosquitoes!

Repellent Plants

Certain plants naturally repel mosquitoes with their smell. Planting lavender, catnip, citronella, peppermint, or garlic around African mallows can help deter mosquitoes from hanging around.