If you've been noticing small, buzzing insects flying around your kitchen, there's a good chance you're dealing with a fruit fly infestation. These pesky little bugs can be difficult to get rid of, but with the right information, you can rid your home of them for good. All-Safe Pest & Termite will discuss everything you need to know about fruit flies in Sugar Land, including how to identify them, how to prevent an infestation from happening in the first place, and how pest control in Sugar Land can help if one does occur.
What Are Fruit Flies?
Fruit flies are small, dark-colored insects that are attracted to ripened fruits and vegetables. You can identify these small flies by their reddish eyes and black bodies. Fruit flies in households are often found near garbage cans or in kitchen sinks where they have access to rotting food.
They lay their eggs near these food sources, and the larvae feed on them as they develop into adults. While fruit flies typically only live for around 30 days, they can reproduce very quickly; a single female can lay up to 500 eggs in her lifetime. This is why it's important to get rid of fruit flies in your Sugar Land home fast!
Fruit Fly Infestations Seem To Come Out Of Nowhere
Fruit fly infestations are most common during the summer months when fruits and vegetables are ripening. However, they can be a problem year-round here in Texas.
One of the most telltale signs of a fruit fly infestation is spotting the insects themselves. If you see fruit flies in your kitchen or near any fruit or vegetables you have out, it's time to take action. Another sign of a fruit fly problem is finding small, white eggs on or near these food sources. These are the eggs that the females lay, and they hatch within 24-48 hours.
Five Practical And Effective Fruit Fly Prevention Tips
The best way to get rid of fruit flies is to prevent them from becoming a problem in the first place. Here are five tips that can help:
- Keep your kitchen clean. This is the most important step you can take in preventing fruit fly infestations. Be sure to wipe down counters, wash dishes regularly, and clean up any spills or food debris immediately.
- Store fruits and vegetables in the fridge. This will help to keep them from ripening too quickly and attracting fruit flies.
- Keep garbage cans covered. Make sure that all garbage cans in your kitchen are tightly sealed to prevent fruit flies from getting in.
- Don't leave food out. If you're not going to eat it right away, put it away. Leaving food out is an invitation for fruit flies (and other pests) to come in and infest your home.
- Use essential oils. Certain essential oils, like lemongrass, are an effective and natural way to get rid of fruit flies. Try diffusing them in your kitchen or placing a few drops on a cotton ball and placing it near areas where you've seen fruit flies.
If you follow these tips, you should be able to prevent fruit fly infestations. However, if you cannot get rid of fruit flies in your home, All-Safe Pest & Termite can help.
On-Going Professional Pest Control Keeps The Fruit Flies Away
At All-Safe Pest & Termite, we offer affordable monthly pest control services that are designed to keep your Sugar Land home free of fruit flies and other common pests. Our experienced technicians will work with you to choose a plan that meets your specific needs. We'll also provide tips on how you can prevent future infestations from happening.
If you're dealing with a fruit fly problem or any other type of pest issue, contact All-Safe Pest & Termite today to learn more about our residential and commercial pest control services in Sugar Land. We'll be happy to provide a free, no-obligation estimate for our services. Let us help you keep your Sugar Land home pest-free all year long.