Darragh Ennis Reveals Natural Solution to Eliminate House Flies

Irish television personality and entomologist Darragh Ennis has shared an effective natural method to combat house flies, particularly the troublesome fungus gnats, in a recent TikTok video. The 44-year-old star of The Chase, known for his expertise in insects, highlighted an environmentally friendly solution that could help homeowners maintain their plants while keeping pests at bay.

In his video, Ennis explained that fungus gnats are not only a common nuisance during the summer months but can also pose a challenge for plant owners. These small black flies tend to thrive in compost and can infest houseplants, leading many to abandon their greenery due to the irritation caused by the pests. Ennis stated, “If you’ve got little insects flying around your house, it can be really annoying. Now, I’m an entomologist, so I love insects, but I still don’t want those tiny little black flies all over my house.”

Using Nematodes for Natural Pest Control

Darragh Ennis offered a straightforward solution: the use of nematodes, microscopic worms that can be ordered online. He elaborated, “One type of them crawls inside insects and kills them. Now, it’s a bit gruesome, but it’s a natural way of killing them.” These nematodes are particularly effective against the larvae of fungus gnats, providing a chemical-free alternative to traditional pest control methods.

To apply this method, Ennis suggested mixing the nematodes with water in a watering can and pouring the mixture onto houseplants. He explained, “The best bit about this is that they crawl through the soil and hunt through the larvae and everything so they’re gone.” He displayed a packet of Sciarid Fly Nematodes, which are available on platforms like Amazon.

Additional Natural Fly Deterrents

Beyond nematodes, Ennis shared various other natural strategies to prevent flies from entering homes. Certain herbs and plants, such as basil, lavender, mint, bay leaves, and marigold, emit scents that repel these pests. Homeowners can also create an essential oil spray by combining one cup of water with 10-15 drops of oils like peppermint, lemongrass, or citronella, plus a tablespoon of vodka to help mix the ingredients. This mixture can be misted around doors and windows to deter flies.

Another popular DIY trap involves mixing apple cider vinegar with washing up liquid in a bowl, covering it with cling film, and poking small holes in the top to attract and capture flies, particularly fruit flies.

Darragh Ennis’ innovative approach not only provides a remedy for household pests but also encourages environmentally friendly practices that can help preserve beloved houseplants. With his expertise as an entomologist, he continues to engage viewers by making pest control accessible and effective.