Flies can be a real nuisance when you’re trying to relax or entertain on your patio. Whether you’re grilling, enjoying a meal, or just soaking up the sun, these pests seem to find a way to invade your space.
Fortunately, there are several natural ways to help keep flies away that are safe for your home, pets, and the environment. In this post, we’ll cover some popular natural options for keeping flies away, plus make sure you know when to bring in the big guns (pest control experts).
Why Do Flies Love a Patio?
In Florida’s warm, humid climate, several types of flies commonly invade patios, including house flies, fruit flies, and drain flies. They’re drawn to patios for a few reasons, generally searching for food or a place to rest.
More specifically, house flies are typically drawn to leftover food, open trash bins, and pet waste.
Fruit flies target sugary substances and fermenting materials, which might be present if there are overripe fruits, spilled drinks, or food crumbs left behind.
Drain flies, on the other hand, are attracted to standing water and damp surfaces, such as birdbaths, planters, or even clogged drains.
Essentially, if you have food leftovers, patio plants, sugary drinks, or even pet waste nearby, they can become easy targets. However, with an idea of the pests you’re dealing with, it’s easier to deter them.
6 Natural Tips to Keep Flies Away From Your Patio
When it comes to flies, simple, natural methods can sometimes do the trick or supplement your normal pest control routine. Try these safe and simple ways to keep your patio fly-free:
1) Certain Essential Oils
Flies are sensitive to the strong scents of essential oils like eucalyptus, peppermint, and lavender.
Mix a few drops of your chosen oil with water in a spray bottle and apply it around your patio, especially on furniture and near doors.
You can also place cotton balls soaked in the oil around your seating areas or use an essential oil diffuser to spread the scent continuously.
2) Fly-Repellent Plants
Planting herbs and flowers such as basil, mint, lavender, and marigolds around your patio can naturally deter flies.
These plants release scents that flies avoid, making them an effective and attractive barrier. Keep these plants in pots or garden beds around your outdoor area. Not only do they serve as natural repellents, but they also add style and aroma to the space.
3) Homemade Fly Traps
Creating a simple vinegar fly trap is a quick way to reduce the number of flies.
Fill a small bowl or jar with apple cider vinegar and add a few drops of dish soap. The vinegar attracts flies, while the soap reduces surface tension, causing flies to sink and get trapped.
Place the traps around your patio, especially near problem areas like food prep zones or seating areas.
4) Use Fans
Flies are weak fliers and have trouble navigating through strong airflow. So, position an oscillating fan on your patio to create a breeze that keeps flies from settling.
Now you’re deterring flies while simultaneously keeping your patio cool and comfortable on hot days.
5) Citrus Peels
Citrus peels, such as lemon or orange peels, can act as a natural fly deterrent. Rub the peels on your patio furniture or place them around your patio.
The oils released by the peels repel flies, keeping them from landing or hovering around your space. For an extra boost, try adding cloves to the citrus peels! The combination of these scents creates an even stronger repellent for flies.
Replace the peels and cloves every few days for maximum effectiveness
6) Targeted Cleaning Habits
Finally, flies are particularly attracted to specific problem areas, so targeted cleaning habits can make a big difference in prevention.
To begin, regularly sweep crumbs and debris off the patio and wipe down tables and surfaces after meals or outdoor activities. Make it a habit to clean up food or drink spills immediately, especially sugary beverages, which can attract fruit flies.
Also, empty trash bins frequently and make sure they are tightly sealed to prevent flies from finding their way in. Lastly, clear any standing water from planters, birdbaths, or pet bowls, as moisture attracts flies like drain flies.
Other Recommended Maintenance
To keep your patio consistently fly-free, it’s essential to think beyond repellents. Small changes in how you maintain your outdoor space can make a big impact:
- Switch to yellow or LED lighting around the patio, as these attract fewer flies than bright, white lights.
- Regularly trim grass, bushes, and plants nearby to reduce hiding spots and moisture-rich areas where flies thrive.
- Check for and seal any gaps or cracks around windows, doors, and screens to prevent flies from entering the patio or home.
When to Call a Professional
Natural methods and regular maintenance can go a long way, but sometimes problems pop up no matter what you try. Here are a few signs that it’s time to call a pest control expert:
1) Recurring Fly Infestations: If you notice that flies return quickly after implementing natural solutions, there may be a hidden breeding site nearby.
2) Signs of Other Pests: Flies are often attracted to areas where other pests are active. If you’re seeing an increase in flies alongside ants, roaches, or other insects, a pest control expert can help.
3) Health and Safety Concerns: Large numbers of flies can pose health risks, as they often carry bacteria and other pathogens.
Conclusion
Flies shouldn’t stop you from enjoying your patio – with natural remedies like essential oils, fly-repellent plants, and simple adjustments to your space, you can create a comfortable, fly-free environment.
Combining these tips with regular maintenance keeps flies at bay, but if they still linger, reaching out for expert help is a smart move. Reclaim your patio today in Jacksonville, FL, and surrounding areas, by reaching out to Inside and Out Pest Control.