How to get rid of fruit flies
Introduction
Fruit flies are not just annoying. Some species can cause major economic loss, by destroying crops. You can spot adult fruit flies by their brown dots or stripes. Fruit flies’ larvae feast on both fruits and vegetables and certain species like to nibble on the leaves or stems of plants. Fortunately, there are practical steps that can be taken to eliminate these pests.
Required Tools
Fly traps
Sprays
Soluble powders
Instructions
Strike at the Source. The first step in controlling fruit fly populations is to destroy their source. This is even more effective than simply killing adult fruit flies. Therefore, you must determine where they are breeding, and then eliminate that location. These sources may exist in various places. Before searching, keep in mind that fruit fly larvae can only live in damp, rotting organic matter. This matter is vital in order for fruit flies to complete their life cycle. The first sites to check are storage areas for non-refrigerated fruits or vegetables. Other possible fruit fly sources are beneath appliances, in trash cans, and in recycling containers. After locating the breeding grounds for the flies, these areas must be eliminated. Remove or obliterate any food and materials where fruit flies could lay their eggs. Then the adult will not have a location where it can reproduce.
(Fruit) Fly-Free Zones. Several methods can be used to keep areas clean and free of fruit flies. Drainage can remove excess moisture and therefore help to control the fruit fly populations. Also, partially taping drains and drain traps can help to eliminate a potential source of fruit flies. Pouring a bacterial digester down a drain can also help to reduce the size of organic debris. Trashcans and dumpsters should be covered securely with lids, and cleaned periodically. Next, seamless screens should be used to cover buildings’ openings. Finally, tiles can be re-grouted, to prevent fruit flies from breeding where water leaks into walls.
Sprays and Powers. Various sprays and powders can be used to kill fruit flies. Space sprays, wettable powders, and fogging material can help to manage the fruit fly population.
Conventional Fly traps. Various models of conventional fly traps can also be used to help win the war against fruit flies. They attract several species of fruit flie by using a special liquid inside the trap. When using these fly traps, place them in areas where fruit flies have been seen. On the other hand, do not position them near areas where food is prepared or exposed since people are typically in such areas. Thus, the traps must be placed in locations where they will not be bothered or tilted.
Electronic Fly Traps. These fly traps are easy to use, and are very effective when used either indoors or outdoors. They use a special lamp that produces UV light. This light attracts various types of insects, including fruit flies. Once the fruit flies are trapped, they stick to a card that contains a sticky material. After the card is full of insects, it is easily replaced.