The small winged insects seem to multiply every hour and immediately attack any food. A few captured specimens are hardly noticeable. The nests have to be found and destroyed so that the supply of more flies dries up. But where to look?
How can I find fruit fly nest?
Fruit flies do not build nests, but simply lay their eggs in suitable places. Since each female fruit fly can lay up to 400 tiny eggs, thesearch for a nest is pointless. You have to approach combating fruit flies differently.
Where do fruit flies lay their eggs?
Fruit flies (Drosophilidae) love ripe fruits and vegetables. They fly to them to use them as food. Eggs are usually laid on the spot.
- on fruits and vegetables
- preferred in damaged areas
- on open food
- also in organic bucket
- or in the drain
Where there are lots of flies, nests can usually be found. These areas should be cleaned as a priority.
Do I have to throw away fruit infested with fruit flies?
You probably know this: When you approach fruit flies, they rise and fly away. This frees the fruit from them for the moment. Of course, any eggs that may have been laid remain behind. Here's what you can do so you can eat the fruit:
- Wash the fruit bowl thoroughly
- cut out damaged areas generously
Is it dangerous if I eat fruit fly eggs?
No, fruit flies and their eggs are not dangerous to humans. They can carry harmful putrefactive germs. But the human organism is trained to do this and can quickly render them harmless. However, the assumption that they have eaten fruit fly eggs triggers strong feelings of disgust in many people.
How can I prevent nests on fruit and other food?
It is almost impossible to avoid fruit flies completely, especially in summer. The fruit you buy is often contaminated with eggs. With these measures you can reduce the risk of a fruit fly infestation:
- do not buy overripe or damaged fruits
- buy smaller quantities regularly, use them promptly
- wash thoroughly after purchase
- check regularly, throw away rotten fruit
- Keep fruit in the fridge if possible
- use closed containers
- Empty and wipe out the trash can daily
- Wash glasses and plates immediately after use
How can I quickly get rid of fruit flies that have already hatched?
You don't have to use chemicals to combat fruit flies. There are plenty of home remedies available:
- vacuum with the vacuum cleaner
- Put banana peel in plastic bag
- dispose of attracted fruit flies
- pouring hot water down the drain
- Use a mixture of fruit juice, vinegar, water and dishwashing liquid
Tip
Little flies in the potting soil are not fruit flies
Fruit flies, fruit flies, must flies, fermentation flies and vinegar flies are just other names for fruit flies. Small winged insects called fungus gnats can also buzz around plants. They are not fruit flies, as is often assumed. Accordingly, other control methods must be used against them.
