Most of us have our windows flung wide open thanks to the sweltering, sticky conditions Britain has been enduring, but this makes it easier for flies to swarm into your property. Flies thrive in scorching and damp environments as it accelerates their breeding cycle and encourages them to deposit more eggs. It might seem straightforward to simply reach for a spray to eliminate flies, but these products frequently contain toxic substances that can remain airborne and continue to cause irritation throughout the day.
Sprays are also rather ineffective long-term, as they won’t stop fresh flies from entering your property, meaning your pest issue will simply persist. Rather than this approach, Richard Cale, a specialist from Leaf Culture, has revealed that it’s preferable to eliminate flies organically using plants that can deter them from approaching your windows, reports the Express.
He explained: “If you’re exhausted of annoying flies entering your home, consider adding some natural protections like houseplants. Certain plants can improve your living area and also serve as powerful fly repellents.”
It might appear peculiar, but particular herbs can generate essential oils that can bewilder flies and even prove mildly poisonous to them.
Plants disguise the aroma of fruit or any other food fragrances that lure flies to properties which will render your home less attractive to them.
Positioning plants on your window ledges makes it more challenging for flies to search for sustenance and can readily overwhelm a fly’s sensory system to keep them distant from your property.
Houseplants that stop flies from coming into your home
Lavender
Lavender, which is known for its delightful sweet fragrance that is pleasant to humans but detested by flies.
This attractive plant also contains oils like linalool which greatly irritate flies, acting as a natural barrier.
Richard stated: “Lavender plant is popular because of its vibrant purple blossoms and relaxing aroma. Beyond that, this plant is an effective insect-repelling agent. The essential oils in lavender naturally prevent flies.”
Lavender requires six hours of sunlight daily, so it should be placed in a sunny spot in your home and not overwatered during the summer months.
Basil
Basil is ideal for kitchens as it has a strong scent that not only flies but also mosquitoes despise, as it overwhelms their senses making navigation difficult.
Richard stated: “Basil is known for its powerful scent and ability to repel flies and mosquitoes. Place basil in sunny areas such as kitchen windowsills or outside patios where flies are a typical problem.”
Basil is relatively easy to grow indoors, but it can become leggy and start to die if you do not take a few seconds each week to pick any flowers off it.
Mint
Mint, with its cooling yet sharp scent, not only deters flies but also keeps ants, spiders, and even mice away from homes.
It’s a fast-growing plant that contains menthol and other pungent oils which can unsettle animals and discourage them from approaching your home.
Richard said: “Mint is a plant well known for its fantastic aroma and cooking use. Not only this, it is a perfect barrier for flies and ants. The strong minty fragrance keeps out the insects and makes it an excellent natural pest control solution.”
It should be noted that mint can rapidly spread out of control if you don’t trim it back regularly, so keep watch and periodically prune it if it begins to appear unmanageable.