It’s that time of year. Especially with my gleaning activities, I’ve really been dealing with fruit flies this spring.
I thought I’d spend a minute passing on my tricks for ridding the house of the little beasties.
Take a narrow-top bottle like a vinegar or oil bottle or a wine bottle. Pour a little fruit juice or red wine (2 TBS) and banana bits (2TBS) in the bottom, seal off most of the top with tape, or use a funnel (paper, coffee filter, or plastic) to further reduce the size of the opening.
Leave in affected area for 1-2 days.
The fruit fly problem should be substantially resolved after one night of having the trap available.
I always put red wine in my traps–it seems more humane this way. At least they’ll die happy.
In the morning, I cap the bottle and dispose of it (trust me, they’ll multiply in there, you don’t want to cap it and try washing it in a few days. If you must… see below for instructions, though it’s quite an effort).
To “recycle” your trap glass or plastic bottle, place the bottle in a slightly larger container, like a deep pot (asparagus pot or mug if you’re using a narrow bottle) Cap the bottle.
Invert a canister of “canned air” from a computer supply store and point the plastic tube into the space between the larger and smaller bottle. Spray the canned air for 3-5 seconds. The flies will drop like… well… flies. This will freeze the smaller container with your flies in it and allow you to rinse the bottle and recycle it. Note: DO NOT put the caned air opening directly into your fly canister.. that will result in a facial spray of wine and dead flies…
Here’s wishing you a fly-free kitchen this spring and summer!
Jessica, the Penny-Wise Mom
