Enjoying a nice meal or relaxing time on your outdoor patio can quickly become frustrating when pesky flies invade your space. These uninvited guests buzz around, land on your food, and generally make it difficult to enjoy the fresh air.
While a few flies might not seem like a big deal, a large infestation can ruin the entire experience of spending time outside. Fortunately, there are effective ways to get rid of flies outside patio and reclaim your outdoor space.
By understanding where these flies come from and what attracts them, you can take simple steps to make your patio less inviting for them.
With some easy-to-follow tips and a little effort, you can say goodbye to those annoying flies and hello to a fly-free patio where you can truly unwind and savor the great outdoors.
9 Ways To Get Rid of Flies Outside Patio
Here are different ways to get rid of flies outside patio:
1. Use Fly Traps to Catch Flies Outdoors
Setting up fly traps is an effective way to get rid of flies on your patio. There are many types of fly traps available, such as sticky traps, bait traps, and electric traps.
Place these traps in strategic locations around your patio, such as near garbage bins or entry points. The traps will lure the flies in and effectively capture or kill them.
Additionally, you can opt for eco-friendly fly traps that use natural attractants like sugar or fruit bait. These traps are safe for use around children and pets. Remember to regularly check and replace the traps to maintain their effectiveness in keeping your outdoor space fly-free.
2. Incorporate Fly-Repelling Plants into Your Landscaping
Plants such as basil, elderberry, and mint are natural fly repellents and can be incorporated into your patio garden or landscaping. The strong scent emitted by these plants helps to deter flies from the area.
Plant them in pots or directly on the ground near your patio seating area. Not only will they add beauty to your outdoor space, but they will also provide a natural and pleasant way to keep flies at bay.
You can also try planting other fly-repelling plants such as lavender, marigolds, and citronella. The combination of these plants creates a fragrant barrier that flies find unappealing.
Enjoy the added benefit of attracting beneficial insects, such as butterflies and bees, to your garden while keeping the pesky flies away.
3. Maintain a Clean and Tidy Patio to Prevent Flies
Keeping your patio clean is crucial in preventing flies from being attracted to your outdoor space. Regularly pick up any pet waste and ensure that garbage can lids are tightly closed. Clean your grilling utensils and outdoor furniture after each use to remove any food residue that might attract flies.
Additionally, pay attention to potential breeding grounds for flies. Empty and clean birdbaths and pet water bowls regularly to prevent stagnant water from becoming a breeding site.
Keep your patio well-ventilated and dry, as flies are attracted to damp and musty areas. By maintaining a clean and tidy patio, you’ll significantly reduce the presence of flies.
4. Regular Lawn Maintenance to Discourage Flies
Regular lawn maintenance plays a crucial role in keeping flies away from your patio. Flies are attracted to tall grass and piles of brush, as they provide a suitable environment for breeding. By trimming your grass weekly, you eliminate this attractive habitat for flies.
Don’t forget to also address any overgrown areas in your yard, as they can provide shade and shelter for flies.
Remove piles of leaves, grass clippings, or brush that may accumulate in corners or along fences. By keeping your lawn well-groomed and free of debris, you reduce the likelihood of flies making your outdoor space their home.
5. Proper Compost Management to Avoid Fly Infestations
Improperly managed compost piles can become a breeding ground for flies, attracting large numbers of these pests to your patio area. To prevent this, ensure that your compost pile is properly maintained. Bury fresh compost material under older material, ensuring it is well-covered.
Regularly turn your compost pile to accelerate decomposition and prevent the buildup of odors that may attract flies.
Cover your compost with a tarp or mesh screen to keep flies from laying eggs in the compost. By practicing proper compost management, you can enjoy the benefits of composting without the nuisance of flies.
6. Install Fans to Keep Flies Away
Strategically placing outdoor fans around your patio can create a gentle breeze that deters flies from approaching your seating area.
Flies are weak fliers and are easily blown away by even a light wind. Position the fans in a way that creates a gentle airflow across your patio.
You can also opt for oscillating fans to cover a wider area. The constant movement of air will make it difficult for flies to land and will discourage them from lingering. Enjoy the added benefit of a cool breeze on a hot day while keeping flies at bay.
7. Repel Flies with Citronella Candles
Citronella candles are known for their effective fly-repelling properties. The scent and smoke produced by these candles create an unpleasant environment for flies, driving them away from your patio.
Place citronella candles around your seating area, ensuring they are positioned safely away from flammable objects.
You can also opt for citronella torches or lanterns for added ambiance.
The warm glow of the candles will not only create a cozy atmosphere but will also help you enjoy your outdoor space without the nuisance of flies. The pleasant citrus scent of citronella will enhance your outdoor experience.
8. Create DIY Fly Repellent Strips
You can make your own fly-repellent strips using scented oils such as clove, lavender, lemongrass, or mint. These oils have natural insect-repelling properties that help keep flies at bay. Simply soak strips of cloth or absorbent paper in the chosen oil and hang them around your patio.
You can also create decorative fly-repellent strips by soaking wooden beads or decorative pendants in the scented oil and stringing them together.
Experiment with different oils to find the scent that works best for you. This natural and cost-effective solution will add a pleasant fragrance to your patio while keeping flies away.
9. Trap Flies with Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a natural attractant for flies, and when combined with dish soap, it becomes an effective trap. Flies are drawn to the scent of the vinegar, but once they land on the surface, the dish soap breaks the surface tension, causing them to become trapped and drown.
To create this trap, fill a container partway with apple cider vinegar and add a few drops of dish soap. Place the container near fly-infested areas on your patio.
You can also create multiple traps and place them strategically around your outdoor space. This natural and non-toxic method will help reduce the fly population on your patio.