UK households have been told how to get rid of a common summer pest. Fruit flies are making themselves at home in gardens and kitchens, and late summer creates the perfect breeding conditions.
Each female fruit fly can lay around 500 eggs during their lifespan, with around 40 to 50 eggs laid each time. They lay their eggs on the surface of rotting or overripe fruit and vegetables, and can also breed in drains, bins, mop buckets and anywhere else with damp, decaying organic matter, Manchester Evening News reports. If you are struggling to get rid of these pesky insects, experts are now recommending simple and cost-effective ways to stop them from multiplying in your home. “Now is prime time for fruit flies, but thankfully, there are simple steps homeowners can take to keep them at bay,” said an expert from Garden Buildings Direct. “Minimising food waste in indoor bins and cleaning surfaces are quick fixes, as are emptying standing waters and wiping down damp surfaces. Other easy tips to try include making a trap with apple cider vinegar and using natural deterrents near doors and windows to deter the bugs.” One tried and tested method includes using apple cider vinegar to trap the flies and banish them for good.
Apple cider vinegar
“You can make a trap using apple cider vinegar. Pour apple cider vinegar into a small bowl and add a couple of drops of washing up liquid – the scent of the vinegar will draw the flies in, and the washing up liquid will ensure they remain trapped,” says the expert.
Try placing decoy traps in the garden away from doors and windows. Apple cider vinegar can be purchased at most supermarkets from £2.10.
Eliminate breeding grounds
If you have food waste in your kitchen bin, clean and empty it regularly, especially if it’s hot and sunny.
“Make sure work surfaces are wiped down and free of any food remnants. The same goes for outdoor eating areas. Keep tables, BBQs and any other surfaces clean and free of food remnants,” the expert recommends.
Standing water
“Empty sinks, washing up bowls and any other areas where there’s standing water. Standing water mixed with decaying matter like food scraps offer the perfect conditions for fruit fly eggs to hatch,” the advice says.
Dry damp areas
“Wipe around sinks, baths and other damp areas to prevent fruit flies from breeding. It will take seconds and could prevent an infestation,” the expert adds.
Natural deterrents
Opt for natural deterrents to deter fruit flies.
“Essential oils including eucalyptus, lavender, peppermint or citronella can all help. Alternatively pot up the plants and place them near doors and windows to deter the bugs,” says the expert.
Food storage and waste
“One of the best ways to prevent further infestation is to seal all loose food products in air tight containers, and store them in the fridge,” the spokesperson says.
“This is especially true of fruit and vegetables. If any produce becomes overripe, dispose of it immediately.
“Make sure food waste is disposed of appropriately, cleaning materials are not left out in the open and fruit and veg are not left on the side or in easily accessible fruit bowls.”
In the garden
“Pick up any fallen fruit and vegetables in the garden to prevent fruit flies being attracted to them. Remember to cover compost bins and turn compost heaps regularly to deter the bugs,” says the expert.