GardenRx: Dealing with Fruit Flies / CupRock-TV’s Garden Rx reveals our homemade remedy to organically deal with your fruit fly infestation.
Fruit flies and fungus gnats can be quite the nuisance when they invade your house. Luckily, there are several effective methods you can try to get rid of them. In this article, we will explore some of the recommended techniques from PBS-Tv’s GardenRx to tackle these pesky pests.
1. Eliminate their breeding grounds: Both fruit flies and fungus gnats thrive in moist environments. To prevent them from multiplying, ensure that there are no standing water sources in your house. Fix any leaky faucets or pipes and dry any wet areas. Additionally, remove overripe fruits and vegetables as they are a prime attraction for fruit flies.
2. Clean up regularly: Keeping your house clean and free from food debris is crucial in reducing the presence of fruit flies and fungus gnats. Wipe down countertops, sweep floors, and empty trash cans frequently. Pay special attention to cleaning areas where fruits and vegetables are stored, as well as houseplants.
3. Create DIY traps: PBS-Tv’s GardenRx suggests making homemade traps to catch fruit flies and fungus gnats. For fruit flies, you can create a vinegar trap by placing apple cider vinegar mixed with a few drops of dish soap in a shallow dish. The vinegar attracts the flies, while the soap breaks the surface tension, causing them to drown. For fungus gnats, combine apple cider vinegar with a few drops of liquid dish soap and place it in a container covered with plastic wrap. Poke small holes in the cover to allow the pests to enter but prevent them from escaping.
4. Use sticky traps: Place yellow sticky traps near your houseplants or areas where these pests are commonly found. The bright yellow color attracts both fruit flies and fungus gnats. Once they land on the sticky trap, they won’t be able to escape, ultimately reducing their population.
5. Employ biological control: Beneficial nematodes can be used to combat fungus gnats. These microscopic worms feed on the larvae of fungus gnats, thus disrupting their life cycle. Apply nematodes to the soil of infested plants according to the package instructions.
6. Repot your plants: If you have potted plants that are heavily infested with fungus gnats, consider repotting them. Remove the old potting soil and replace it with fresh soil that is free of fungus gnat larvae. This will help to eliminate the pests and prevent future infestations.
7. Use natural deterrents: Certain natural substances are known to repel fruit flies and fungus gnats. For example, planting basil, mint, or lavender near windows and doors can deter fruit flies from entering your house. Similarly, using essential oils like citronella or eucalyptus can be effective in repelling fungus gnats.
By implementing these techniques recommended by PBS-Tv’s GardenRx, you can effectively deal with fruit flies and fungus gnats in your house.