Can you think of anything that ruins an outdoor experience faster than a bunch of flies buzzing around? They take the relaxation out of social gatherings and replace it with pure frustration. Especially during the warmer months when the atmosphere may already be a bit heated. But before you get the ick or get too agitated, the good news is that there are a couple of cheap ways to keep flies away from your patio and yard.
Skip the harsh chemical sprays and impress your guests with innovative, natural, low-cost solutions to your pest problems. The key is to disrupt their ability to detect foods, lay eggs, settle on surfaces, and navigate your space, and the ultimate goal is a safe, clean, fly-free space.
1. Citronella Candles
Citronella is a brilliant fly repellent and it comes in many forms. One of the classic, most effective is a good ol’ citronella candle. The oil emits a strong, citrusy odor that not only repels flies, but it also keeps other flying insects away. The citronella masks the other smells that attract the flies to your food and beverages, which reduces the number of flies in your living space.
You can use the candles as part of your table setups, or create a pleasant ambiance by lining your patio or deck with a couple. Enhance the effect by combining them with other citronella products, like torches and oil diffusers.
2. Container Herb Garden
There are many benefits to having your own container herb garden. The most obvious include the fact that you’ve got easy access to a good supply of herbs when cooking, and it also looks pretty. But did you know that it also deters flies naturally? Fill your container herb garden with basil, mint, rosemary, and lavender and you’ve got an effective, fragrant barrier without the need of any chemicals.
Place your herb pots near your patio, along your doorways, and around your seating area. Since they’re in containers, you can easily move them around as the need arises. For a stronger scent and maximum effectiveness, crush or rub a couple of leaves right before your social gathering.
3. Lemons with Cloves
It’s simple, but it works. The combination of the citrus scent of the lemon and the aroma of the cloves create a smell that has the ability to confuse and deter flies. It’s incredibly cost-effective, super easy, non-toxic, and it doubles as a fragrant decoration. Simply cut a lemon in half and press a couple of whole cloves into its flesh, then place them on your tables, counters, or around your patio.
If you’ve got a platter or some plates of food set up on your table, place a couple in-between to mask the scent. If you’re still unsure about how effective this trick is, you can pair it with other clever ways to keep flies away from your patio and yard, like herbs and citronella candles.
4. Bug Zappers
Many people don’t like bug zappers because of the noise they make and the idea of zapping a flying insect to its death. But these electronic devices are highly effective, especially in larger spaces where citronella candles and herbs don’t make a significant difference. The UV light attracts and eliminates insects, including flies, while you enjoy your outdoor event.
There are solar-powered versions available, so you can hang them anywhere without the need of a power outlet. The best place is near your food prep zones or above your entrance to stop insects right before they join the party. Be sure to place the bug zapper strategically to avoid harming bees and other pollinators.
5. Mesh Screens
It’s not always ideal, but a mesh screen surrounding your outdoor living screen creates a physical barrier that keeps flies away from your space. Choose fine mesh that allows airflow and visibility, while flies can’t get through. Mesh screens are durable, reusable, easy to install, and they reduce the need of chemicals to deter flies and other flying insects. Install them around your patio, pergola, or gazebo to create an enclosed area and pair them with curtains, hooks, or zippers for easy access.
The screens also help keep pets and children in while you’re socializing, which gives owners and parents peace of mind. The only downside is that this method can’t be used for large yards without physical structures.
6. Hanging Water Bags
There’s this theory that if you hang clear plastic bags filled with water, light refracts through the water, which confuses flies’ vision and makes them avoid the area. Does it work? Try it for yourself because you’ve not nothing to lose. The bags are inexpensive and you’ve probably already got some in your house. They’re also easy to fill and you can hang them anywhere, including your patio, outdoor kitchen, in trees, and near your entrances. For an enhanced effect, you can add some pennies or other waterproof reflective objects to the mix.
7. Eucalyptus Bundles
There’s something about natural ingredients that deters flies and other flying insects, like mosquitoes. Eucalyptus leaves have strong aromatic oils, making them one of those natural ingredients and one of the most clever ways to keep flies away from your patio and yard. Bundle fresh eucalyptus and hang it in doorways, near seating areas, and above outdoor kitchens to create a fragrant barrier similar to citronella products.
You can also place them in pots or vases and crush the leaves to enhance the scent. And if you really like the smell, add some wood chips to a bowl and soak them in strong eucalyptus oil, then place the bowl on your outdoor table.
8. Fly-Repelling Fans
Fans by themselves prevent flies from setting on food and surfaces because the air currents make it difficult for them to navigate. However, it isn’t always an option to add large fans to your outdoor living space and it defeats the purpose of being in nature. Plus, when the wind picks up you’ll be dealing with more than enough airflow. Fortunately, there are small, portable fans, as well as fans designed to keep flies away that you can use. Place them in your outdoor living space for an energy-efficient, chemical-free solution.
Jamie is the founder of The Backyard Pros. When he was 15 years old he started working at a garden centre helping people buy plants, gardening products, and lawn care products. He has real estate experience and he is a home owner. Jamie loves backyard projects, refinishing furniture, and enjoys sharing his knowledge online.