15 Practical Methods: How To Get Rid Of Flies On Houseplants

Houseplants are the perfect addition to any home, apartment, or office space. They help purify the air, add a pleasing aesthetic touch to your living space, and can even provide you with some food! 

However, one of the biggest problems with houseplants is keeping them free from pests. Flies are attracted to plants because they love their natural sweet aroma. Luckily for us, there are plenty of ways to get rid of these pests without harming our beloved plants!

The presence of flies on houseplants is something that drives many people crazy. These pests can be hard to control, but there are a few ways to get rid of them that are successful and safe for your plants.

1. Use a fan to blow them away

One of the easiest ways to get rid of flies on houseplants is to use a fan. Position the fan so that it is blowing directly onto the plants and the flies will be blown away. This method is especially effective if you are dealing with a small number of flies.

2. Trap them with sticky tape

If you have a lot of flies on your plants, trapping them with sticky tape is a good way to get rid of them. Tape can be purchased at most stores and it is easy to use. Simply put the tape around the pot or stem of the plant and the flies will get stuck to it and die. This method is easy and safe for your plants and you can continue to use the same pieces of tape over and over again.

3. Use soap and water to drown them

Another way to get rid of small flies on houseplants is to simply drown them. Fill a small bowl with soapy water, place the plants in it and the flies will drown. Be sure to change the water frequently, especially if there are a lot of flies.

4. Use a flyswatter

If you don’t want to use any harsh chemicals or traps, you can simply swat the flies away with a flyswatter. This is not always as effective as other methods, but it can be useful in a pinch.

5. Use ground cinnamon and cloves 

Another natural method to get rid of houseplant flies is to sprinkle your plants with some cinnamon and cloves. The smell is unpleasant for the flies and they will stay away from your plants.

6. Use a homemade trap

One homemade way to get rid of houseplant flies is a mixture of soap and alcohol. Mix together two egg whites, one teaspoon of liquid dish soap, and 1/2 cup of rubbing alcohol. Transfer this solution into a spray bottle or shallow bowl and put it wherever the flies are annoying you the most. The flies will fly into the trap and drown.

7. Cut off their food source

If you are trying to get rid of houseplant flies, one easy way is to cut off their food source by removing any rotting fruit or vegetables that may be in your home. Removing the insects’ food sources will make them look for another place to eat.

8. Clean your houseplants thoroughly

Finally, one easy way to get rid of flies on houseplants is to clean the plants thoroughly. Remove any dead leaves or insects from the plants and wipe off any dirt that may have accumulated around the stem or inside of small crevices in the plant pot. After this, flip the plant upside down and shake it to get rid of any remaining insects.

9. Use a homemade trap

Another way to get rid of houseplant flies is with a mixture of soap and alcohol. Mix together two egg whites, one teaspoon of liquid dish soap, and 1/2 cup of rubbing alcohol. Transfer this solution into a spray bottle or shallow bowl and put it wherever the flies are annoying you the most. The flies will fly into the trap and drown.

10. Cut off their food source

If you are trying to get rid of houseplant flies, one easy way is to cut off their food source by removing any rotting fruit or vegetables that may be in your home. Removing the insects’ food sources will make them look for another place to eat.

11. Use a vacuum cleaner

Another way to get rid of flies on houseplants is to use a vacuum cleaner. Simply suck up the flies with the vacuum cleaner and they will be gone. This method is especially useful if you have a lot of flies.

12. Use a fly gun

Another method to kill houseplant flies is with the use of a gun or other object that uses air pressure to shoot out small projectiles. This will not always cause death, but it can be very effective and you won’t have to touch any insects as they will already be dead.

13. Use flypaper

An easy way to kill small flies on houseplants is with the use of fly paper. Place the flypaper wherever you are seeing the insects and tear off a new piece when it gets full of dead flies. This method can be very effective when used correctly but is not always something that can be used in a pinch.

14. Use a sticky fly strip

Another way to trap flies on houseplants is with the use of sticky fly strips. These can be placed anywhere that you are seeing flies and the insects will get stuck on the adhesive. When it is full, just replace it with a new one.

15. Bring your plants outside

If all else fails, you can always bring your plants outside to get rid of the flies. This will only work if it is warm enough outside and you don’t have any pests or diseases that could harm your plants.

While you are taking care of your plants, be sure to follow these tips to help keep them looking healthy and beautiful.

Houseplants should always be placed in an area where they will get plenty of indirect sunlight each day.

​Houseplants that are in darker areas or shaded areas are more likely to have pest infestations, so always take care to place them in well-lit areas.

Water your plants at least once a week, even if they do not need it. This will help prevent root rot and other fungal growths on your plants. 

Do not overwater your plants as this can cause root rot as well

If you start to notice pests such as fruit flies, ants, or aphids on your plants, use a strong spray bottle filled with water to wash them all away.

Do not fertilize your houseplants while they are in bloom because this can cause the blossoms to drop off. Limit fertilization to once every other month.

Conclusion:

There are many easy and effective ways to get rid of houseplant flies. Using a fan, tape, soap and water, flyswatter and homemade traps are all great ways to use natural ingredients to get rid of household pests. Though some methods may take more time than others, it is always best to choose safe and organic ways to keep your plants healthy and looking beautiful.