Whether you hate pesticides, despise the look of fly traps or just want to get rid of flies without killing them there are dozens of natural ways to get rid of flies.
Plants
Plants are by far one of the very best ways to repel and deter annoying flies from bothering you within your home and in your yard. Many plants emit a powerful sweet smell that flies hate. Planting them in your garden beds, window boxes and potting plants is a great start. Checkout our favorite 7 plants that naturally repel flies.
8 Plants That Naturally Repel Flies
1. Lavender
Has grown in popularity over the past few years for hundreds of natural uses. However one of it’s little known capability is it’s superb ability to repel flies, moths and other insects. It puts off a pleasant sweet fragrance that flies hate. Hang dried plants in trouble areas to scare flies away. The beautiful pedals make it a great plant for gardens and flower beds as well. See current lavender seed pricing on Amazon.
2. Basil
Powerful and sweet smelling, use basil in flower pots around the home to add a great smell in your home and take advantage of its incredible ability to repel flies naturally. Plant basil in window boxes and next to doors for long term effective repellent, its a great mix in for potting soil. If you are hoping to keep flies away outside for events or parties we recommend placing them on picnic tables and near serving areas during parties. Pickup some basil seeds now.
3. Venus Fly Trap
The Venus Fly Trap is a carnivorous plant native to the east coast in the United States that attracts flies onto it’s leaves and then once tiny hair like membranes are activated to closes and consumes the fly. These interesting plants are also great for catching spiders. Venus Fly Trap Grow Kit.
Watch one in slow motion:
4. Bay Leaf
Used regularly for cooking stews and soups this bitter plant puts off an aroma that bugs hate. It has been used to successfully repel flies, earwigs, cockroaches and even mice. Both green and dry leaves will work. Bay Leaves actually come from a tree that can be grown in a home garden.
5. Mint:
Is a very popular insect repellent for homes, people and pets. Inside of your home you can put crushed or broken mint leaves into sachet bags and hang them in problem areas. Cut fresh mint leaves along with a citrus peal of either orange and lemon and boil in a covered pot. Let the brew sit overnight and then strain the next morning. Put in a spray bottle an you have a natural insect repellent, that is also safe for pets. We love this Mint seed collection kit from Amazon.
6. Tansy:
Tansy’s work great as a natural repellent especially if you are willing to do a little bit of work. Taking either fresh or dried leaves and boiling them can make a potent natural spray that can be used on your body and in your home. Many home recipes often include mixing this concentrate with lavender oil for even better results. Tansy’s are an invasive plant so plant them in controlled areas like planter boxes or a window garden box.
7. Woodworm:
Woodworm is extremely easy to grow and very popular for fly repellent both in the home and garden. Green thumbs love planting it in planter and window boxes near doors to help repel flies. Taking fresh leaves and rubbing them on your clothes and body can help naturally repel flies when outdoors. Additionally placing dry bundles near doors, in closets and in the kitchen is a great way to prevent flies in those areas.
8. Rue:
Rue is very popular for getting rid of Fruit flies. The woody plant is most effective when the leaves are crushed and placed in a bowl or cup near the area impacted by fruit flies. Keep in mind this plant can cause some irritation to the skin for some people, so use gloves if necessary. See current pricing fro Raw Rue Seeds on Amazon.
Conclusion
With so many incredible plants that are perfect for repelling plants setting up your yard and home with an array of fly repelling plants has never been easier. We strongly recommend using combinations of the plants above based on the climate you live in and size of your yard. Use the plants that are great at growing in your home for areas like your kitchen and family room. Strategically place plants near windows and doors that will help keep flies out of your home. Have a tip for naturally deterring flies? Share it with us in the comments!