How To Get Rid Of Hoverflies?

Hoverflies with their unique hovering flying style and resemblance to bees, can sometimes be misidentified as innocent pollinators. They can, however, become a problem when they spread and invade houses, yards, and outdoor areas. If you are dealing with an infestation, don’t worry! In this article, we’ll go over practical methods on how to get rid of hoverflies and stop them from coming back.

How Can We Identify Hoverflies?

Before we get into the topic of how to get rid of hoverflies, let’s take a quick look on identifying the hoverflies because this insects were misidentified as bees and wasps because of their similar look.

These tiny flying insects have an abdomen striped in black and yellow, and they range in length from 1/8 to 1 inch (4–25 mm). They have huge heads with prominent eyes, and their wings are transparent with dark veins.

They actually play a significant role in pollinating wildflowers and crops. Hoverflies play a crucial part in pollination as well as being major predators of aphids and other garden pests.

How To Get Rid Of Hoverflies?

Hover flies also known as flower flies or syrphid flies, are beneficial insects in moderate numbers that aid with pollination and act as natural predators of aphids and other pests. But because of their rapid breeding cycle, they can undergo population explosions and become an annoyance both indoors and out. But with certain methods, we can easily get rid of these hoverflies.

Let’s see what those methods are and how we can use them productively.

1. Fly Traps: There are several traps that can be used to catch and kill these hoverflies. While some traps attract the flies with bait, others do it by using heat or light. Most hardware and home improvement stores carry fly traps.
2. Hoverfly-repelling plants: Another option is to plant hoverfly-repelling plants. Citronella, eucalyptus, marigolds, and lavender are excellent choices. Another option is to create a homemade hoverfly trap with sugar water, fruit, and a jar. Lastly, you may attempt to use a commercial hoverfly lure or spray.
3. Hoverfly repellent spray: Another option is to create your own hoverfly repellant spray. This may be done by combining equal parts apple cider vinegar and water, then adding a few drops of essential oil (lavender, citronella, or eucalyptus work fantastic). You can spray this mixture wherever you observe hoverflies flying about or around the outside of your house.
4. Use Nematode worm: Nematode worms are a powerful deterrent to hoverflies. These little parasite insects will eat any hoverfly they come into touch with. You can get them from your neighbourhood garden centre or online.
5. Apple Cider Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar can also naturally repel hoverflies. Simply fill a spray bottle with a small amount and spray away. The vinegar will kill the flies and prevent them from returning.

With these techniques, you can easily control the presence of hoverflies in your own space.

Conclusion

Dealing with hoverflies can be challenging, but with the right pest control methods, we can easily eliminate them from our space. By understanding their habits and getting help from pest control services, you can keep hoverflies away and maintain a healthy balance in your ecosystem.