Plants that Help Keep Flies Away

The Importance of Keeping Flies Away

Flies are a common pest that can be quite bothersome to deal with. They are known for their annoying buzzing sounds and irritating bites that can cause discomfort and even illness. Not only are they a nuisance, but they can also spread diseases such as salmonella, cholera, and typhoid fever. This is why it's important to keep flies away from your home or business.

One natural way to keep flies at bay is by using plants that repel them. These plants can be grown both indoors and outdoors, making them a great solution for any environment. In this article, we'll explore some of the best plants for keeping flies away and how to use them effectively.

Best Plants for Repelling Flies

Lavender

Lavender is a beautiful and fragrant plant that has been used for centuries for its medicinal properties. It's also an excellent repellent for flies due to its strong scent. The essential oils found in lavender are toxic to flies, making it an effective deterrent. You can grow lavender in pots or in your garden to help keep flies away.

To use lavender as a fly repellent, you can place dried lavender in sachets around your home or burn lavender essential oils in a diffuser. You can also crush fresh lavender leaves and rub them on your skin to ward off flies while spending time outdoors.

Basil

Basil is another herb that is well-known for its culinary uses, but it's also a potent fly repellent. The strong scent of basil is known to repel flies, mosquitoes, and other insects. You can plant basil in pots or in your garden to keep flies away from your home.

To use basil as a fly repellent, you can make a natural insect spray by boiling a handful of basil leaves in water for 10-15 minutes. Let the mixture cool, strain it, and pour it into a spray bottle. Spray the solution around windows, doors, and other areas where flies tend to gather.

Mint

Mint is a refreshing herb that is commonly used in teas, desserts, and other culinary dishes. It also happens to be an excellent fly repellent due to its strong scent. Mint contains menthol, which is toxic to flies and other insects.

You can grow mint in pots or in your garden to help keep flies away. To use mint as a fly repellent, crush fresh mint leaves and rub them on your skin or place them in sachets around your home.

Marigolds

Marigolds are a beautiful flower that is known for its vibrant colors and pleasant fragrance. They are also effective at repelling flies and other insects. Marigolds contain pyrethrum, a natural insecticide that is toxic to flies and other pests.

You can plant marigolds in your garden or in pots around your home to help keep flies away. They are particularly effective at keeping flies away from outdoor areas such as patios and decks.

Lemongrass

Lemongrass is a tropical plant that is commonly used in cooking and herbal medicine. It's also an excellent insect repellent, including flies. Lemongrass contains citronella, a natural insecticide that is toxic to flies and other pests.

You can grow lemongrass in pots or in your garden to help keep flies away. To use lemongrass as a fly repellent, crush fresh leaves and rub them on your skin or place them in sachets around your home.

Rosemary

Rosemary is an evergreen herb that is commonly used in cooking and herbal medicine. It's also an effective fly repellent due to its strong scent. Rosemary contains camphor, a natural insecticide that is toxic to flies and other pests.

You can grow rosemary in pots or in your garden to help keep flies away. To use rosemary as a fly repellent, crush fresh leaves and rub them on your skin or place them in sachets around your home.

Other Ways to Repel Flies Naturally

In addition to using plants to repel flies, there are other natural methods you can use to keep these pests at bay. Here are a few examples:

Citrus Peels

Flies are known to dislike the scent of citrus fruits such as oranges and lemons. You can use this to your advantage by placing citrus peels around your home or patio. Not only will this help keep flies away, but it will also give your home a pleasant aroma.

Vinegar and Water

A mixture of vinegar and water can be used as a natural fly repellent. Simply mix equal parts vinegar and water in a spray bottle and spray it around areas where flies tend to gather.

Clove Oil

Clove oil is a potent insect repellent that can be used to repel flies and other pests. Mix a few drops of clove oil with water and spray it around your home or patio.

Fans

Flies are weak fliers, which means they can be easily deterred by a gentle breeze. Using fans in outdoor areas such as patios and decks can help keep flies away.

Keeping flies away doesn't have to involve harsh chemicals or expensive pest control services. By using natural methods such as plants, citrus peels, vinegar and water, clove oil, and fans, you can repel flies effectively and safely. Try incorporating some of the plants mentioned in this article into your home or garden, and see the difference it can make in keeping flies away.

FAQs

Q: How do I grow lavender?

To grow lavender, you'll need well-draining soil and plenty of sunlight. Plant seeds or cuttings in a pot or directly in the ground, and water regularly. Lavender is drought-tolerant and prefers dry conditions, so be careful not to over-water.

Q: Can I use dried herbs to repel flies?

Yes, you can use dried herbs such as lavender, basil, and mint to repel flies. Simply place them in sachets around your home or burn them in a diffuser.

Q: What other insects can marigolds repel?

Marigolds are effective at repelling a variety of insects, including mosquitoes, aphids, whiteflies, and nematodes.

Q: Is clove oil safe to use around children and pets?

Clove oil should be used with caution around children and pets, as it can be toxic if ingested. Always dilute clove oil with water before use, and keep it out of reach of children and pets.

Q: Can I use these natural methods to repel flies indoors?

Yes, all of the natural methods mentioned in this article can be used indoors as well as outdoors.