Get flies to buzz off
Chemical-free solutions will deal with annoying flies
Tiny fruit flies, buzzing bluebottles and soil-dwelling fungus gnats are often a nuisance in summer, but non-chemical solutions are available to help deal with them. ● Fruit flies are attracted to ripening fruit and lay their eggs on fermenting foods and moist substances.
Remedy Keep checking fruit bowls and veg racks for damaged or rotten produce, and clean kitchen compost bins with hot water and disinfectant. Trap them using a wine bottle with a little red wine or cider vinegar in the bottom. ● Houseflies are ever-present where food can be found.
Remedy Keep all foods covered; feed pets little and often, removing feeding bowls in between; wash up crockery straight after use; ensure kitchen bins close securely. Organic products include Oa2ki Organic Insect Spray £7.99 for 500ml or electric fly killers from £46.80 from Pest Control Direct (tel: 01323 836845; www. pestcontroldirect.co.uk). ● Fungus gnats or sciarid flies lay their eggs in damp soil or potting compost and are often seen flying around houseplants or seed trays. Their larvae feed on decaying plant material and some species eat seedling roots.
Remedy Use specially formulated houseplant potting compost and allow it to dry out between waterings. Place sticky traps around plants – a pack of 7 costs £5.75 from The Organic Gardening Catalogue (tel: 0844 967 0330; www.organic catalogue.com).