How to Get Fruit Flies Out of Potted Plants

If you have indoor plants, chances are you have also encountered fruit flies at one point or another. These tiny pests are a common nuisance but luckily, there are ways to get rid of them without harming your plants.

Clean Your Plants and Pots

The first step to getting rid of fruit flies is to clean your plants and pots thoroughly. Remove any dead leaves or debris that may be laying on the soil. You can also mix a solution of water and mild soap and gently wipe the leaves of your plants to remove any dirt or residue that may attract fruit flies.

It’s also important to check the drainage holes at the bottom of your pots. Fruit flies can lay their eggs in the soil and if the drainage holes are clogged, it can create a moist and hospitable environment for them to breed. So make sure to clean your pots’ drainage holes regularly.

Change Your Watering Habits

Fruit flies love moist areas, so if you tend to overwater your plants, it can create the perfect breeding ground for them. Make sure to only water your plants when the soil is dry to the touch.

If you have plants that require frequent watering, such as ferns or orchids, consider using a watering can with a long spout to avoid getting water on the leaves as this can also attract fruit flies.

Use Apple Cider Vinegar Traps

Another effective way to get rid of fruit flies is by using apple cider vinegar traps. Simply fill a small jar with apple cider vinegar and add a drop of dish soap. The dish soap will break the surface tension of the vinegar and make it easier for the fruit flies to drown.

Cover the jar with plastic wrap and poke a few holes in it. The holes will allow the fruit flies to enter the jar but will make it difficult for them to escape. Place the jars near your plants and watch as the fruit flies are attracted to the vinegar and trapped inside.

Use Sticky Traps

Sticky traps are another effective way to get rid of fruit flies. These traps use a non-toxic adhesive to catch the fruit flies as they fly by. You can find these traps at most garden centers or online.

To use sticky traps, simply place them near your plants and replace them every few days. The traps will catch the fruit flies and prevent them from breeding and causing further infestations.

Avoid Overripe Fruit

Fruit flies love overripe or rotting fruit, so make sure to dispose of any fruit that may be laying around your home. This includes fruit in your kitchen or any fruit that may have fallen onto the ground near your plants.

If you like to keep a fruit bowl on your kitchen counter, consider using a mesh cover to keep the fruit flies out while still allowing your fruit to breathe.

Conclusion

Fruit flies can be a pesky problem but with a few simple steps, you can get rid of them without harming your plants. Clean your plants and pots, change your watering habits, use apple cider vinegar traps, use sticky traps, and avoid overripe fruit. By following these steps, you can enjoy your indoor plants without worrying about fruit fly infestations.