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10 Effective Tips to Keep Flies Away from Your Outdoor Spaces

Effective ways to keep away flies.
Effective ways to keep away flies. Image by HayDmitriy via Depositphots.

Flies, like any other pest can be super annoying especially when they don’t let you enjoy your backyard party. Keeping flies away from your outdoor spaces ensures a pleasant and hygienic environment. Flies can be a nuisance, disrupting outdoor activities and posing health risks, but by taking proactive measures, you can enjoy your garden, patio, or backyard without the constant buzzing. Here are some effective tips to keep flies away from your outdoor spaces.

Plant Fly-Repelling Herbs

Mint leaves.
Mint leaves. Image by anskuw via Depositphotos.

Herbs such as basil, mint, and rosemary are excellent natural fly deterrents. While planting these herbs around your outdoor space can be a simple task, it can help keep flies at bay. They release scents that flies find unpleasant, making your garden less attractive to them. Plus, you’ll have fresh herbs readily available for cooking!

Use Natural Fly Repellents

Rosemary essential oil.
Rosemary essential oil. Image by angelsimon via Depositphotos.

Essential oils like lavender, eucalyptus, and citronella are known for their fly-repelling properties. Simply place a few drops on a cloth or cotton ball and position them around your outdoor area. Not only do they keep flies away, but they also add a pleasant aroma to your space.

Create a DIY Fly Repellent

Homemade apple vinegar and ingredients on wooden background
Homemade apple vinegar and ingredients on wooden background. Image by AtlasStudio via Depositphotos.

You can make your own fly repellent using simple household ingredients. A mixture of apple cider vinegar and dish soap works wonders at attracting and trapping flies. Pour the mixture into a shallow dish and place it in areas with high fly activity. The vinegar attracts the flies, and the dish soap traps them, preventing them from escaping.

Install Outdoor Fans

Mini classic outdoor fan for camping and picnic
Mini classic outdoor fan for camping and picnic. Image by shirotie via Depositphotos.

Flies are weak fliers and have difficulty navigating through strong winds. Installing outdoor fans can create an unwelcoming environment for them. Position fans strategically around your seating area or patio to keep flies at bay. This solution is especially useful during hot summer days when flies are most active.

Keep Food Covered

Fly screen for fruits
Fly screen for fruits on the table. Image by KaryakinVitaliy.yandex.ru via Depositphotos.

When dining outdoors, always keep your food covered. Use mesh food covers or lids to protect your meals from flies. This not only prevents flies from landing on your food but also keeps it fresh and hygienic. Make it a habit to cover food immediately after serving to minimize fly attraction.

Use Citronella Candles

Citronella candles used as fly repellant
Citronella candles used as fly repellant. Image by tcostachiioiu via Depositphotos.

Citronella candles are a popular choice for repelling flies and other insects. Light these candles around your outdoor space to create a fly-free zone. The scent of citronella masks odors that attract flies, making your area less appealing to them. Plus, the gentle glow of the candles adds a cozy ambiance to your outdoor gatherings.

Keep Your Lawn Trimmed

Trimmed backyard lawn.
Trimmed backyard lawn. Image by iriana88w via Depositphotos.

A well-maintained lawn is less likely to attract flies. Regularly mow your grass and trim bushes to eliminate potential fly breeding grounds. Overgrown vegetation provides shelter and food sources for flies. By keeping your lawn tidy, you reduce the chances of a fly infestation.

Use Fly-Repelling Plants

Marigold flower in full bloom.
Marigold flower in full bloom. Image by Milkos via Depositphotos.

Certain plants are known for their fly-repelling properties. Marigolds, for example, emit a scent that flies find offensive. Plant these flowers around your garden to deter flies naturally. Not only will you have a colorful garden, but you’ll also keep flies at bay.

Avoid Standing Water

Summer pool conservation, in a country house, for the winter
Autumn conservation of the summer pool before winter. Image by mosstan via Depositphotos.

Standing water is a breeding ground not only for flies but also for deadly mosquitoes. Ensure there are no puddles, birdbaths, or containers holding stagnant water in your outdoor space. Regularly empty and clean these areas to prevent flies from laying eggs. Proper drainage and water management are key to reducing fly populations.

Store Trash Properly

Closed trash cans in backyard.
Closed trash cans in backyard. Image by PantherMediaSeller via Depositphotos.

Flies are attracted to garbage, so proper trash storage is essential. Use trash cans with tight-fitting lids to prevent flies from accessing the waste. Empty the trash regularly and clean the cans to eliminate odors that attract flies. Keeping your trash area clean and covered is crucial in keeping flies away.

By implementing these tips, you can create a fly-free outdoor environment and enjoy your time outside without the annoyance of flies. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, relaxing on your patio, or gardening, these strategies will help keep flies at bay and make your outdoor space more enjoyable.