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Mosquito Control: When Droplet Size Counts
Dr. Jason Meyers
Technical Service Representative - BASF Professional & Specialty Solutions
Many PMPs utilize gas-powered application devices for mosquito control while others may choose to use a hand-held B&G or backpack pump sprayer. Each of these devices may result in a different size droplet of the product being delivered, and droplet size can have a tremendous effect on efficacy for mosquitoes.
Pro Tip:
Think of it as the Goldilocks effect – droplets need to be just the right size for impinging on flying or resting mosquitoes and “hang time”. During the application if the droplets are too large, and they fall to the ground far too quickly. Too small, and they may move to another property, depending on air current strength.
Some application equipment is capable of creating the ideal range (refer to the label for the equipment type). This is because a droplet in the label range will most likely impinge on a flying mosquito. It will also effectively cut through the air and adhere to plants and other surfaces for residual action (depending on the product formulation).
Gas-powered backpack sprayers create an ideal droplet diameter using a mid-value on the dial. For example, if your sprayer has a range of 1 to 6, the best setting for mosquitoes may be 3 or 4 (refer to your instruction manual for setting information). Note that hand-held sprayers typically are not capable of creating droplets small enough for ideal mosquito control.
Dr. Jason Meyers is a technical services representative for BASF Professional & Specialty Solutions. He earned his doctorate degree in urban entomology from Texas A&M University, studying under Dr. Roger Gold and focusing on identifying and controlling the invasive tawny crazy ant. He received his Master of Science (MS) degree from the University of Arkansas in entomology, where his graduate work centered on insect pathology. Jason has multiple publications in peer reviewed journals and contributes educational materials, presentations and articles through the pest industry’s trade publications. He is also a featured presenter in the BASF Perimeter Pro Program.
Cell: 480-292-0351
Email: jason.meyers@basf.com
Always read and follow label directions.
