When a Gazebo Net Isn’t Enough: How to Get Rid of Pesky Flies

Although appetizing and with expectations of great experiences that await us, summer days are also the time for thousands of insects that crowd into our day to day, regardless of whether we have invited them or not. Having secured our garden gazebo netting, we feel prepared to deal with that threat, but sadly it’s often not enough. The dome of the gazebo, as well as its corners, are favorite places for flies to congregate and getting rid of them is often a tedious and fruitless process. However, you do not have to worry, because with these simple methods, the insects would not dare to come near you anymore.

It is worth mentioning, to begin with, that it is important to first look carefully and see if you can find what attracts the flies and get rid of it. If there is nothing obvious, you can continue with one or a combination of the following methods.

One of the most effective, natural, and easy ways to keep pesky little things at bay is to plant basil bushes around your gazebo as close together as possible. The aroma is not only invigorating, but also practical and useful in your summer kitchen. Fresh cut basil is a great addition to any salad! Apart from that, the smell of the plant is, for some reason, unpleasant for flies and other insects. Plant enough of these and you’re set for a bug-free experience.

There are simple custom-made fly traps that often get the job done when placed near your gazebo.

• Mix a tablespoon or more of apple cider vinegar, orange juice, or wine with some dishwashing soup. Put it in a jar or deep plate and cover it with a lid in which you have made some holes in advance. It will act as a magnet for flies and the only thing you will have to do in case they keep coming is to change the trap every so often, when it fills up.
• Another effective mix for the above pitcher trap is 3 cups of water, a quarter cup of sugar, and a quarter cup of white vinegar. Mix well, pour, poke holes in lid and place in designated spot.
• A simple trap for fruit flies and other insects, if you’re not willing to go to much trouble, is to leave a small amount of wine in the bottom of a tall bottle.

Of course, don’t forget about the old fly spray and use the gazebo netting as often as possible, as well as keeping the interior clean. And as another alternative or something to combine with the other methods, leave a citronella candle burning for about an hour before attending to use your gazebo.