It’s summer in Michigan. You’re ready to fire up the grill for a backyard barbecue, but before you can flip the first burger, another guest arrives. Then another, and another. But none of them were invited.

Suddenly, your outdoor oasis is swarming with flies, and it seems as though there’s nothing you can do about it. 

Flies are a universal headache when enjoying outdoor spaces, and knowing how to control flies outside is a game-changer for keeping your home and gatherings pleasant.

How to Control Flies Outside in Michigan

Michigan summers are prime fly season. With our warm, humid climate, flies thrive and reproduce rapidly, especially near water sources, food waste, and decaying organic material. 

Learning how to control flies in your outdoor area is essential if you want to fully enjoy our beautiful summers, whether you’re in Ann Arbor, Grand Rapids, or right here in Oakland County.

Most flies aren’t just a minor irritation. They’re also a health risk, spreading bacteria and pathogens. That’s why effective outdoor fly control isn’t just about comfort but also your family’s safety.

What Attracts Outdoor Flies?

Before jumping into solutions, you need to understand what draws flies to your yard in the first place. 

Some of the most common attractions include:

• Food sources such as open trash cans, leftover crumbs, and pet food.
• Standing water in birdbaths, ponds, or even poorly drained areas.
• Decaying organic matter like garden waste or compost piles.
• Sweet beverages left unattended during warm-weather gatherings.

By eliminating or minimizing these attractants, you’re already on your way to controlling the fly population.

General Tips: How to Control Flies Outside

If flies are turning your outdoor space into a battleground, it’s time to take action. Here’s a list of effective ways to manage and reduce fly populations:

Keep it Clean 

Regularly clean up food crumbs, spills, and any garbage. Use tightly sealed trash bins to prevent flies from accessing food waste.

Remove Standing Water 

Flies are drawn to stagnant water. Empty birdbaths frequently and ensure proper drainage in your yard.

Set up Outdoor Fly Traps 

Traps can be an effective way to reduce the number of flies. You can buy ready-made solutions or make a DIY trap using a jar, water, and sugar.

Plant Fly-Repelling Herbs 

Add plants like basil, mint, and lavender to your garden. These herbs don’t just smell great; they naturally repel flies.

Use Citronella Candles 

While they’re best known for deterring mosquitoes, citronella candles can also work well against flies.

Did You Know?

Flies are incredibly dirty. Houseflies can carry more than 100 microorganisms harmful to humans! These pathogens can cause diseases like salmonella, E. coli, and cholera. To make matters worse, a single fly can lay up to 150 eggs at a time, meaning one fly can quickly turn into an infestation if not controlled.

FAQ

What food attracts flies the most?

Flies are particularly drawn to sugary and decaying food items. Leftover fruit, soda spills, and open trash bags are some of their top attractions.

What’s the best way to get rid of flies naturally?

Natural solutions like planting fly-repelling herbs, using vinegar-based fly traps, and keeping your outdoor area clean are highly effective.

Why are flies so active in the summer? 

Warm weather accelerates the fly life cycle, allowing them to reproduce more quickly. The abundance of food and water sources during summer also contributes to higher fly activity.