We have a major problem with them along the trim over our back porch. And now they're drilling holes in the cedar overhangs of my chicken coop. They really frustrate me. But I've been reading that they are great pollinators, and considering that we're losing alot of our honey bees, I think I'll try to mildly discourage them (in natural ways), and just replace the badly damaged pieces of wood eventually. They don't make holes straight through into your house, but turn at a 90 degree angle, once they are 1/4" into the wood, and make their chambers. One reason I don't want to make it impossible for them to continue to drill holes in the back porch area, is that I know they will go elsewhere on the house, where it would be much harder to get to to replace the wood. The males don't have stingers, only the females do.......but it's hard to tell them apart. Good luck, but try to balance things in your mind, as to your approach. I think they do alot of good, and so I'm going to tolerate them for the most part. But I do have a discussion with them everytime I have to deal with them, and ask them to please use a tree or old fencepost instead. :)

There are more than 80 mosquito species found in Florida year round. I was surprised to read this and find out that mosquitos are active both day and night depending on the species. Some can fly as much as 25 miles! Check any object that can hold water. Even seashells can be a breeding ground for the larvae. Today I found wigglers in plant saucers and a bird bath. Those guys were not there yesterday! This link is quite interesting especially the chart that shows how long different products are effective. From the same link: What About Devices That Emit Sound To Repel Mosquitoes? There is no evidence that wearing devices that emit sound will repel mosquitoes. Will Garlic, Bananas, Or Vitamin-B Repel Mosquitoes? There is no scientific evidence that eating garlic, vitamins, onions, or any other food will make a person repellent to mosquitoes. Here is a link that might be useful: Mosquito Repellents

The research I've seen says that no plant in the ground will keep mosquitoes away -- even those commonly used in repellents. The repellents need to be on your skin. There are some very effective ways to nearly eliminate mosquites from your garden, mind you, such as the "vacuum traps" that burn a little propane for CO2/heat and release attractants, then suck in the mosquitoes and dessicate them. However, those devices are expensive, and I've heard they're not very durable.

As for plants, Taste for Life magazine (available at health food stores and online at tasteforlife.com) has an article in the May 2007 issue about 2007 Herb of the Year: Lemon Balm. This herb has many, many uses, including repelling mosquitoes. Leaves rubbed on the skin will prevnt mosquitoes. Also--not a plant but apparently non-oxic an effective mosquito repellent is now on the market (read about it in Real Simple magazine--June 2007, page 68) called Don't Bug Me (www.dontbugmepatch.com): "Vitamin B1 and aloe are released through the pores to deter bugs. It's non-toxic and waterproof, so there's no need to reapply after a dip." Testemonials on website sound convincing. I will be ordering a crate myself....