How To Get Rid Of Hover Flies On Patio

Hoverflies are common insects that are often seen around patios and other outdoor areas. These flies are attracted to the sweet nectar of flowers, and they can be a nuisance when they swarm around people or food. While hoverflies are not typically harmful to humans, they can be annoying, and there are a few things you can do to get rid of them on your patio.

Eliminate Standing Water

Hoverflies are attracted to standing water, so it is important to eliminate any sources of standing water around your patio. This includes emptying birdbaths, cleaning up any spills, and fixing any leaky faucets or sprinklers.

Remove Nectar Sources

Hoverflies are attracted to the sweet nectar of flowers, so removing nectar sources from your patio can help to deter them. This includes removing any flowering plants from your patio, or covering them with netting to prevent the flies from reaching the nectar.

Use Traps

There are a number of different traps that can be used to catch hoverflies. These traps typically use a sweet bait to attract the flies, and then trap them inside. You can purchase hoverfly traps online or at your local hardware store.

Use Barriers

You can also use barriers to prevent hoverflies from entering your patio. This includes screening in your patio, or using fly strips or curtains to keep the flies out.

Use Natural Predators

Hoverflies have a number of natural predators, including birds, spiders, and wasps. Encouraging these predators to visit your patio can help to reduce the number of hoverflies.

Use Essential Oils

Some essential oils, such as peppermint oil and tea tree oil, are known to repel hoverflies. You can diffuse these oils in your patio, or apply them to your skin to keep the flies away.

Use Commercial Repellents

There are a number of commercial repellents available that can be used to keep hoverflies away from your patio. These repellents typically contain ingredients that are harmful to hoverflies, so it is important to read the label carefully before using them.