There are several ways on how to keep flies away from pumpkins. When it’s pumpkin season, nothing can ruin a perfectly carved jack-o’-lantern faster than a swarm of flies.
Not only are flies a nuisance, but they can also carry diseases and contaminate your pumpkin. So, how do you keep these pesky insects away from your pumpkin?
Worry less, this article got you covered. As you keep reading, you will learn the effective methods that you can implement to keep flies away from your pumpkins.
How To Keep Flies Away From Pumpkins
Do you know how to keep flies away from pumpkins? Here are a few simple tips, by following these simple tips, you can keep flies away from your pumpkin and enjoy a fly-free Halloween.
Read also:Â 5 Scents that Fruit Flies Hate
1. Keep your pumpkin clean
Flies are attracted to the scent of rotting fruit and vegetables, so it’s important to keep your pumpkin clean and free of any decaying matter.
This can be especially challenging if you live in a warm climate, as pumpkins are more prone to decay in hot weather.
How to clean your pumpkin
To keep your pumpkin clean;
- Wipe the surface with a damp cloth.
- Remove any visible dirt or debris.
- If you notice any soft spots or mold on your pumpkin, remove them immediately.
- Get rid of rotten areas, it can attract flies and other insects, and can also cause the pumpkin to rot more quickly.
Read also:Â What Scents Repel Flies?
2. Use natural repellents
Using natural repellents is one great step on how to keep flies away from pumpkins. There are several natural ingredients that can help repel flies, such as basil, mint, and lavender.
These plants emit a strong aroma that flies find unpleasant and can help keep them away from your pumpkin, you can place these plants near your pumpkin.
How to use natural repellents to get rid of flies on pumpkin
Use essential oils made from these plants to create a natural fly repellent. To make your own fly repellent;
- Combine a few drops of basil, mint, or lavender essential oil with water in a spray bottle.
- Shake well and spray around the base of your pumpkin to keep flies at bay.
Read also:Â How Long Do Flies Live?
3. Use a fly trap
Fly traps are an effective and non-toxic way to get rid of flies and are also a key step on how to keep flies away from pumpkins.
These devices use sweet bait, such as overripe fruit or honey, to attract flies, and then trap them inside so they can’t escape.
You can purchase a fly trap at your local garden center or make your own by filling a jar with sweet bait and covering the top with plastic wrap.
How to use fly traps
- Secure the plastic wrap in place with a rubber band.
- Then make a few holes in the top.
- The flies will be attracted to the bait, but won’t be able to escape through the holes.
Fly traps are a great way to get rid of flies without using chemicals, and are safe to use around children and pets.
Read also:Â Stable Flies: Facts and How to Get Rid
4. Keep your pumpkin in the fridge
If you’re not ready to carve your pumpkin yet, keeping it in the fridge can help slow down the decomposition process and reduce its attractiveness to flies.
Just make sure to bring the pumpkin back to room temperature before carving, as carving a cold pumpkin can cause condensation on the surface, which can make it more prone to rot.
5. Use a pumpkin protector
Pumpkin protectors are plastic or mesh bags that can be placed over your pumpkin to keep flies and other insects out.
These are especially helpful if you live in an area with a high fly population, as they provide an extra layer of protection against flies and other pests.
Pumpkin protectors are easy to use – simply place your pumpkin inside the bag and secure it with the drawstring.
The bag will allow air to circulate around the pumpkin, helping to keep it fresh, while keeping flies and other insects out.
6. Keep your pumpkin covered
If you’re not ready to carve your pumpkin yet, keeping it covered with a lightweight cloth or sheet can help prevent flies from laying eggs on the surface.
Make sure to check the cover regularly and remove any flies or eggs you find, as these can hatch and multiply quickly.
A covered pumpkin is also less likely to attract flies and other insects, as they are less able to detect the scent of the pumpkin.
7. Use a pumpkin preservative
Pumpkin preservatives are sprays or solutions that can help extend the life of your pumpkin by slowing down the decomposition process.
These products are specially formulated to preserve the moisture and natural oils in the pumpkin, helping to keep it fresh and prevent it from drying out. Pumpkin preservatives are especially helpful
Conclusion
Lastly, by following these simple tips, we guarantee you can keep flies away from your pumpkin and enjoy a fly-free Halloween.
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