It’s a constant problem once the sun shines – you throw open windows and doors and immediately flies, wasps and all things winged swarm into your house. But when the heatwave returns next week, as it’s forecast to start on Tuesday before peaking at 30C on Friday, there are steps you can take to stop your house being overrun, without killing flies or other valuable pollinators.
As well as wasps and bees, flies often dart into people’s homes in summer, with lots of people leaving their windows or even entire doors open to get some much-needed fresh air into their stuffy or humid houses. Some people view them as a pest and try to swat them, but it’s not something we should really be doing given even the irritating blow flies are important pollinators. So instead, there is another option, which is cheap and can also be used for cooking.
How to keep flies out of your house
Mint and basil plants can be bought for as little as £1 from Asda, as well as shops like Sainsbury’s, Ocado and Tesco.
Most garden centres also sell them for £1-£1.50 and they are perfect for repelling flies who do not like the pungent smell they give off.
Having them around windowsills and near doors can be handy – and they do not harm the flies in any way.
According to Natran Green Pest Control, flies like fruit flies and bluebottles will be repelled by mint as well as basil and several other scents like citronella.
It says: “In addition to making your house smell minty fresh, herbs like spearmint and peppermint can also keep flies at bay.
“Mint grows quickly and makes an excellent addition to your backyard garden or your windowsill. For those who lack a green thumb, spearmint or peppermint essential oils can also prevent fly infestations. Indoor Use: Place mint pots on countertops or near windows to naturally repel flies. Diffuse peppermint oil for a stronger scent. Outdoor Use: Plant mint along garden edges or in outdoor planters to keep flies away from outdoor dining areas. Pro Tip: Combine peppermint oil with water to make a DIY fly spray for kitchen counters or patio furniture.”
Flies hate basil and mint
For basil, it works in much the same way.
The site adds: “Sweet basil is a delicious-smelling (and tasting) herb you can grow indoors or outdoors. Not only will it help you naturally keep flies away, but it also provides you with a never-ending supply of tasty garnishes!
“If you don’t trust yourself to keep a basil plant alive, you can also purchase sweet basil essential oil and diffuse it throughout your home. Indoor Use: Grow basil in small pots and place them on windowsills or countertops to repel flies. Outdoor Use: Plant basil in garden beds near entryways or outdoor seating areas for added protection. Pro Tip: Blend fresh basil leaves with water and vinegar to create a natural, fly-repelling cleaning spray.”