ChatterBank1 min ago
What is the best way to kill flies in the house
00:00 Tue 19th Jun 2001 | Home & Garden
A.
Fly sprays are generally pretty lethal, but the pungent chemical aroma, plus the fact that many contain organo-phosphates, which have been linked to health problems, make them increasingly unpopular. The good old sticky flypaper is actually very effective, especially if you position it in a place where the flies are attracted to, like a window. However, you're going to need more than one and, let's face it, you can't make a piece of sticky brown paper covered in fly carcasses look attractive whatever you do.We've all seen those electric blue glowing tubes that fry flies in places like butchers' shops, and there are now domestic versions available. However, the jury seems to be out on how effective they actually are. Also, recent research has suggested that when the fly explodes it showers the immediate area with micro-organisms, including viruses. They are also almost as ugly as the flypapers.
By far the most attractive fly controls are carnivorous plants, like venus fly traps or pitcher plants. You may need more than one, but it is estimated that a mature Sarrecina (pitcher plant) can gobble over 1,000 in a year.
Q. What about outside
A.
Bead curtains might seem like a throwback to the hippy era, but they are actually highly effective at stopping flies entering through open doors while letting air in. On the continent many house will have inner mesh doors or windows that can be pulled over during the day and stop all sorts of insects getting in.If you are sitting or eating outside try a couple of the citronella scented candles. The odour really does put the flies off. There are also ones that do the same to mosquitoes.
Q. How do you stop mosquitoes breeding in ponds or water butts
A.
Mosquitoes breed in stagnant water. If you have a pond you should either introduce a pump that keeps the water moving, however imperceptibly, or else you need to add something to the water. Fish like guppies or carp are a natural control as they will feast on the larvae. If you don't have fish there is a non-toxic biological treatment available from most garden centres.You can prevent mosquitoes breeding in water butts using the liquid treatment, by keeping the butt covered or by pouring a layer of vegetable oil onto the surface which prevents the larvae breathing.
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By Tom Gard
