The presence of flies around outdoor spaces like patios and pet zones can quickly turn an enjoyable environment into a frustrating one. These insects are not only a nuisance but also carry pathogens, making their management a matter of comfort and hygiene. Addressing this common issue does not require harsh chemical treatments; instead, an effective strategy focuses on natural methods. By proactively removing the sources that attract flies and deploying natural repellents and traps, you can significantly reduce the population and reclaim your outdoor living areas.
Eliminating Outdoor Fly Attractants
The most foundational step in natural fly control is prevention, which means eliminating the organic materials flies use for feeding and breeding. Flies complete their life cycle quickly, often laying eggs in damp, decaying matter, so removing these sources disrupts their reproductive cycle.
Outdoor garbage bins are primary targets and should always have tight-fitting lids to prevent flies from accessing the contents. Regular cleaning of these containers with a hose and mild detergent removes any residual odors or spills that might attract insects.
Pet waste must be collected and disposed of daily, as it is a highly attractive breeding ground for many fly species. Additionally, eliminate sources of standing water, such as in overturned planters or clogged gutters, to remove excessive moisture that certain flies require for laying eggs. Compost piles should be properly managed by keeping them covered and ensuring a good balance of materials to promote rapid decomposition, making them less appealing to pests.
Utilizing Natural Repellent Plants and Scents
Once attractants are managed, the next layer of defense involves deploying natural deterrents that flies actively dislike. Many common herbs and plants emit volatile organic compounds that act as natural repellents by interfering with a fly’s olfactory senses.
Planting basil near outdoor seating areas helps deter flies, as they find the strong aroma offensive. Other aromatic plants can be strategically placed in pots around the perimeter of a deck or patio:
- Lavender
- Mint
- Rosemary
- Marigolds
Marigolds contain pyrethrins, which naturally repel various insects.
Essential oils offer a concentrated form of these deterrents, with scents like eucalyptus, peppermint, and citronella being effective. These oils can be used in an outdoor diffuser or mixed with water to create a spray for surfaces. Combining 10 to 15 drops of a potent oil like lavender or peppermint with water can be misted around entry points.
A different approach uses physical movement to deter flies, as they are poor fliers in turbulent air. Placing an outdoor fan near gathering areas creates air currents strong enough to keep them away.
Constructing Simple DIY Fly Traps
For flies that manage to bypass preventative measures and natural repellents, simple, non-toxic traps can be deployed to reduce the existing population. One effective method utilizes an apple cider vinegar and dish soap mixture, which attracts fruit flies and other species.
Fill a shallow dish with apple cider vinegar, which mimics the scent of fermentation. A few drops of liquid dish soap are added and mixed into the vinegar to break the surface tension. Flies are attracted by the acetic acid scent, but once they land on the surface, the broken tension prevents them from floating or taking off, causing them to sink and drown.
Another easy-to-make trap uses a plastic bottle cut in half, with the top portion inverted and placed inside the bottom to create a funnel. The bottom section of this funnel trap is filled with a sweet bait, such as sugar water or fruit juice, which draws the flies in. Houseflies are sometimes more attracted to protein-based baits like a small piece of raw meat or fish. Once the flies enter through the narrow opening, they become trapped inside the bottle.