How to Control Fruit Flies

About Fruit Flies

You’ve likely landed on this page because fruit flies have invaded your home. These tiny pests hitch a ride on the fruits you bring into your kitchen. They multiply quickly as they fly from one fruit to another in your fruit bowl and spoil them. They are a common pest indoors. And they common outdoors, where they are less of a nuisance. So, let’s explore how to control fruit flies.

In the summer and early fall, fruit flies appear in great numbers. They do so when ripe and sometimes overripe fruits and vegetables are plentiful in kitchen fruit bowls.

Drosophila melanogaster

Fruit Fly Identification

These tiny flies are about 1/8 inch long. Their body color is yellow or tan. They have bright red eyes.

They are most noticeable in and around fruits, tomatoes, and other vegetables left in the kitchen. It’s no surprise, as these fruits and vegetables are their perfect meal. And, you are feeding them! They are also found in drains, and especially in garbage cans that do not have a tight lid.

They also take up residence in your houseplant’s dead and decaying leaves and branches, In addition, other flies and gnats may find a cozy nest in your houseplants. flies. So, make certain to keep houseplants well-tended.

Fruit Fly Life Cycle

The life cycle of fruit flies is very short. After emerging from the eggs, the larva stage lasts 5-6 days. Then, the adult fruit fly stage lasts for 10 days. Mating pairs are very active. The female lays 30 to 50 eggs per day throughout her short adult life. She lays eggs into decaying organic matter, starting the next cycle.

How to Control Fruit Flies

The larva can only survive in decaying organic matter.

First, remove the things they are looking for.
Remove fruits and vegetables from counters and tables. Wrap them securely in plastic bags or put them in the refrigerator.
Use garbage barrels with tight lids. Empty the garbage frequently.
Keep drains clean.
As discussed above, remove any ed and decaying houseplant leaves and branches.
Use an easy-to-make homemade trap or buy one from the store. See below for how to make your own fruit fly trap.