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House flies are a real nuisance, buzzing around our homes and spoiling our enjoyment of a cup of tea or a braai. But fear not, fellow Zimbabweans, there are several ways to send these uninvited guests packing!
Keeping Flies Out:
- Close Up Shop: Flies love easy access. Make sure all windows and doors have properly fitted screens to keep them out. Repair any gaps or tears in the screens immediately.
- Seal the Deal: Check for cracks or holes around windows, doors, and other entry points. Seal these up with caulk or weather stripping to prevent flies from sneaking in.
- Empty the Bucket: Eliminate potential breeding grounds. Don't let rubbish pile up – dispose of food scraps and other waste daily. Keep your trash cans tightly sealed with lids.
- Mind Your Manure: If you live near a farm or have pets, ensure proper manure management. Clean up animal waste regularly to prevent flies from breeding.
- Fruity Farewell: Overripe fruit attracts flies. Don't leave fruit out on the counter – store it in the fridge or a sealed container.
Natural Fly Traps:
- The Vinegar Trap: Fill a small bowl with apple cider vinegar (it's readily available in Zimbabwean supermarkets) and a few drops of dish soap. The sweet smell attracts flies, and the soap breaks the surface tension, causing them to drown.
- The Brown Paper Bag Trap: Cut a funnel shape into a brown paper bag with a small hole at the bottom. Place a piece of overripe fruit or some bait inside the bag. Flies enter through the hole and get trapped inside.
- The Herb Garden Defense: Plant herbs like basil, mint, and lavender around your home. The strong scents help repel flies naturally.
Shop-bought Solutions:
- Fly Swatters: A classic weapon against flies. Keep one handy for those pesky flies that manage to sneak in.
- Fly Paper: These sticky traps are effective in catching flies, but be mindful of placement – you don't want them hanging near food prep areas.
- Fly Sprays: Use these as a last resort, following the instructions carefully. Remember, some fly sprays contain chemicals that can be harmful, so keep them out of reach of children and pets.
Bonus Tip: For a natural fly repellent, mix a few tablespoons of lemon juice with water and spray it around entry points or areas where flies congregate.
By following these tips and utilising a combination of preventative measures and traps, you can reclaim your home from the pesky house fly menace. Remember, a clean and tidy environment is key to keeping these buzzing bothers at bay. Now go forth and enjoy your fly-free Zimbabwean haven!
