Homeowners who have dealt with insect infestations know that even the smallest critters can make for formidable foes. A single insect might not seem like a substantial problem, but such uninvited guests have a tendency to multiply, quickly becoming a problem for less proactive homeowners.

Such is the case with fruit flies. Though small in stature, fruit flies can prove a pesky, food-contaminating nuisance. As their name implies, fruit flies are attracted to ripening fruits, which serve as a food source and a breeding ground. Fruit flies also breed around garbage disposals, drains and garbage cans while facilitating the transmission of bacteria that can prove harmful to human health. Fortunately, homeowners can employ a combination of strategies to fend off fruit fly infestations before they take root.

Locate and eliminate potential breeding grounds. Fruit flies are seen swarming around trash cans and areas where food has been left out. According to TERRO, an industry leader in DIY pest control products, fruit fly populations tend to be greatest during the summer and fall months, when they infest fruits during the harvest season.

Pay particular attention to trash containers during these times of year, discarding trash more frequently if necessary and making sure all trash can lids are tightly closed. In addition, place ripened fruits and vegetables in the refrigerator during these times of year.

Trap flies before they can breed and multiply. Fermenting fruit or moist organic debris is necessary to complete the fruit fly life cycle. TERRO Fruit Fly Traps, which last 30 days, employ a non-toxic, food-based liquid lure to  attract and trap fruit flies. Once inside, fruit flies cannot escape, eliminating their chance to breed and multiply. Before placing traps, pay attention to where fruit flies tend to be most problematic and place the apple-shaped traps in those areas.

"The key to successful elimination of fruit flies is to locate their breeding source and place the TERRO Fruit Fly Trap nearby," says TERRO Director of Research Stew Clark. "Look for fruit fly sources in areas where unrefrigerated fruits and vegetables are stored, near garbage cans and recycling bins."

Once you identify potential breeding grounds, activate the apple-shaped trap by pulling the leaf-like lid from its base and pouring the liquid lure into the vapor chamber. Keep the lid open while the trap is in use, and you should notice a significant decrease in the number of fruit flies within a few days.

Keep a clean home. Clean homes, and tidy kitchens in particular, are less likely to be overcome with fruit fly infestations. After cooking meals, be sure to clean all surfaces with which food has come in contact. Clean any spilled drinks, since sweet and sticky beverages like soda and wine lure fruit flies. It's also important to keep cleaning materials, such as mops and drains, clean, since fruit flies can continue to breed in soiled mops and dirty drains.

Though small in stature, fruit flies can prove harmful to human health, spreading bacteria while also serving as a pesky nuisance. But while many might see fruit flies as an inevitable side effect of warmer weather, these uninvited guests can be quickly and easily eliminated.

More information about TERRO Fruit Fly Traps is available at terro.com.

-MetroCreative Connection