Do lilacs attract mosquitoes?
1. Introduction
2. What are lilacs?
3. Does the smell of lilacs attract mosquitoes?
4. The science behind it
5. Different types of mosquitoes and their preferences
6. The potential risk of mosquitoes attracted to lilacs
7. Natural ways to keep mosquitoes away from lilacs
8. Insecticides as a last resort
9. Different types of lilac hybrids
10. Flower gardening tips when planting lilacs
11. Conclusion
Do Lilacs Attract Mosquitoes?
Lilacs are a popular flowering shrub that can be found in many gardens around the world, often blooming with beautiful clusters of purple, pink, or white flowers in the springtime months. As beloved as they are, it begs the question – do lilacs attract mosquitoes? It turns out, according to recent studies, that certain kinds of lilac can attract some species of mosquito. Let’s explore what we know about this phenomenon and how you can protect yourself from potential risks associated with it.
What Are Lilacs?
Lilac is a genus of flowering shrubs in the olive family that is comprised of around 10-20 species, depending on whether you include hybrid forms or not. They are native to Europe and Asia and have been cultivated for centuries for their aromatic blossoms and attractive foliage. The most common variety is Syringa vulgaris which produces fragrant flowers ranging from deep purple to pale pink or white in color during the months of April and May.
Does The Smell Of Lilacs Attract Mosquitoes?
The short answer is yes – certain kinds of lilac can attract mosquitoes, depending on their morphology and chemical composition. In a study conducted in 2020, researchers discovered that two compounds found in some varieties of lilac – nonanal and lilac aldehyde – were found to attract not only native mosquitoes but also those from other regions such as Aedes aegypti, the carrier of dengue, Zika, yellow fever and other viral illnesses, and Anopheles stephensi, a malaria vector.1
The Science Behind It
Mosquitoes have an incredibly sensitive sense of smell which they use to detect carbon dioxide produced by mammals when they exhale (which is why they often seem drawn to us). Nonanal and lilac aldehyde are compounds found in some varieties of lilac which emit an odor similar to carbon dioxide molecules when released into the air – thus attracting nearby mosquitoes who mistake it for an animal exhaling nearby.2
Different Types Of Mosquitoes And Their Preferences
Not all types of mosquito are attracted to the same compounds; different species have different preferences for certain odors based on what their primary food source is (e.g., flowers vs animals). For example, Aedes aegypti (the type responsible for transmitting dengue fever) has been shown to be particularly attracted to nonanal whereas Anopheles stephensi (the type responsible for transmitting malaria) prefers lilac aldehyde.3
The Potential Risk Of Mosquitoes Attracted To Lilacs
Due to the fact that some species of mosquito can be carriers for dangerous illnesses such as dengue fever or malaria, there is a potential risk associated with having these insects near your home or garden if you live in an area where these illnesses are common or prevalent.4. Therefore it is important to take steps to keep them away from your home if possible (more on this below).
Natural Ways To Keep Mosquitoes Away From Lilacs
There are several natural ways you can help reduce the number of mosquitoes near your home without resorting to chemical insecticides:
• Planting mosquito-repelling plants such as lavender, marigolds or citronella near your lilacs can help keep them away due to their strong scent.5.
• Keeping any standing water or damp areas away from your house will reduce the number of places where mosquitoes can breed.6.
• Removing any debris such as leaves or sticks from your yard will also help deter them from congregating near your home.7 .
Insecticides As A Last Resort
If natural methods do not seem effective at keeping mosquitoes away then chemical insecticides may be necessary as a last resort option – but only if used carefully according to instructions provided by the manufacturer and local health authorities.8 . Keep in mind that insecticides should never be used directly on plants – always spray them onto soil or other surfaces instead.9 .
Different Types Of Lilac Hybrids
It’s important to note that not all types of lily are created equal; some varieties contain higher concentrations of nonanal and/or lilac aldehyde than others which may make them more attractive to certain species of mosquito than others.10 . Therefore it is important to select specific hybrid forms carefully if you live in an area where mosquito-borne illnesses are common.
Flower Gardening Tips When Planting Lilacs
When planting lilies consider these flower gardening tips: choose an area with full sun exposure; plant at least two feet apart so air circulation between individual plants helps prevent diseases; water deeply but allow soil time time dry between watering sessions; fertilize every other week during their growth season; prune regularly after flowering season ends; mulch underneath plants helps retain moisture but keep mulch away from stems; apply insect repellent if necessary according safety instructions provided by manufacturer.11
Conclusion
In conclusion, certain kinds of lilies may attract some species
