How to Deter House Flies From a Buffet Table

There is no easier way to feed a crowd than by setting up an attractive, appealing buffet. Unfortunately, the presence of uncovered food often draws an unwanted guest: flies. Attracted to even the smallest bit of sustenance, flies are not just annoying, they are also unhygienic. While effective, many of the commercial products that have been designed to keep flies at bay are not safe for use around food. Luckily, there are a number of natural products that can be used to safely deter flies and keep them from lingering at the table. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1

Fill small bowls with crushed mint leaves and place them around the table. Alternatively, use small, potted mint plants and incorporate them in the decor. The scent of mint naturally repels flies. If mint is not available, try fresh, fragrant basil or crushed, dry bay leaves. The EPA recommends keeping basil plants well-watered to increase the scent.

2

Gather pine boughs into clusters and secure the stems with ribbons and bows. Place these naturally repellent decorations near the table to keep flies at bay. The scent of pine, while pleasing the most people, tends to deter most insects, including the common house fly.

3

Arrange blooming lavender boughs in vases and use the bouquets as centerpieces. The pleasant aroma of lavender repels both flies and mosquitoes. If fresh lavender is out of season, sprinkle lavender essential oil over scraps of cloth and place them between the platters of food.

4

Make small sachets filled with cloves and place them near plates of food, or dip the squares of cloth in eucalyptus oil. The pungent aroma of either one will keep flies and other insects away.