HOW TO PREVENT AND CONTROL FLIES
Domestic flies can originate in a variety of back yard sources. In addition to being a nuisance, flies can contaminate food and spread filth.
STAGES IN THE LIFE CYCLE OF FLIES
The eggs can be laid on almost any moist, decomposing organic matter. Depending on the fly species and environmental conditions, fly eggs can pass through their developmental stages and produce flies in as little as six days.
Successful fly control requires eliminating fly sources, rather than controlling adult flies after they emerge. Your back yard can be checked and fly production sources eliminated by using this check list.
GARBAGE CANS: Line garbage cans with plastic liners. Rinse out weekly. Use only garbage cans with tight fitting lids.
GRASS CLIPPINGS: Grass clippings should be discarded with weekly trash pick up. Clippings should never be left in piles. Grass clippings can also be spaded into the ground or scattered thinly in the garden.
COMPOST PILES: Compost piles will produce flies if they are not turned often enough to maintain the composting at a rate that is sufficiently rapid to prevent fly production. A well-managed compost pile will reach and maintain temperatures well above (120). This high temperature created by proper composting will kill flies. If the pile does not compost properly, it should be covered COMPLETELY with a thick black plastic tarp.
PET DROPPINGS: Pet droppings can be a source of flies; however, they are more important as a fly attractant. Dog droppings should be buried at least one foot deep or removed from yard daily. Chicken and pigeon cages should be thoroughly cleaned twice weekly.
MANURE FERTILIZER: When using fresh fertilizer, compost to stabilize prior to use. Spread thin and mix into the soil promptly.
SNAILS: Poisoned snails can be a source of flies and should be collected, bagged, and discarded at least once a week.
FRUIT UNDER TREES: Decaying prunes, peaches, apricots, and other fruits attract flies. Rake up all fruits that dropped from your trees at least twice a week. Bag and place in your garbage can or bury them.
EXCLUSION: Excluding flies from entering a home or patio area may help relieve a fly nuisance. Repair broken or missing door and window screens.
CHEMICAL CONTROL: Chemical control of flies is the least effective and most expensive approach. Insecticides may offer some temporary control, if used properly.
FOLLOW ALL LABEL DIRECTIONS WHEN USING PESTICIDES.
NON-CHEMICAL CONTROL: Several products are available which may help reduce a fly nuisance without the use of chemicals. These include the following:
FLY PAPER AND STICKY FLY TRAPS - These products are placed in areas where flies are active and catch flies on a sticky surface.
FLY CONTROL ATTRACTANTS - These products consist of a trap (plastic or glass jar) and fly attractant. They are placed 50-100 feet away from areas to be kept free of flies.
Information about flies is also available in a brochure.
For More Information:
(530) 365-3768