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How to Get Rid of Fruit Flies on Fishbone Plant

Updated: August 16, 2022

If you have a fishbone plant at home, you may have noticed tiny fruit flies buzzing around it. These pesky insects can be annoying and make your home feel dirty. Fortunately, there are several ways to get rid of fruit flies on your fishbone plant without harming the plant itself.

Identify the Problem

Before you start trying to get rid of fruit flies on your fishbone plant, it’s important to identify the problem. Fruit flies are attracted to decaying organic matter, like overripe fruit, vegetables, and even soil. If you have fruit flies on your fishbone plant, it’s likely that there is some organic matter in the soil that is attracting them.

Remove Decaying Organic Matter

The first step in getting rid of fruit flies on your fishbone plant is to remove any decaying organic matter in the soil. This can include dead leaves, stems, or even old soil from a previous plant. Use a small garden shovel or trowel to gently remove any decaying matter from the top layer of soil.

Change the Soil

If removing decaying organic matter doesn’t solve the problem, it may be time to change the soil. Purchase fresh potting soil and gently repot your fishbone plant, being careful not to damage the roots. This will help get rid of any remaining decaying organic matter that may be attracting fruit flies.

Use Apple Cider Vinegar Trap

If fruit flies are still present after removing decaying organic matter and changing the soil, you can try using an apple cider vinegar trap. Fill a small bowl or jar with apple cider vinegar and add a drop of dish soap. The dish soap will break the surface tension of the vinegar and trap the fruit flies inside.

Keep Your Home Clean

Finally, keeping your home clean can help prevent fruit flies from returning to your fishbone plant. Wipe down surfaces regularly, take out the trash frequently, and avoid leaving food or drinks out in the open.

By following these steps, you can get rid of fruit flies on your fishbone plant and keep them from returning. Remember to be patient and persistent in your efforts, as it may take some time to completely eliminate the problem.

FAQ

Are fruit flies harmful to my fishbone plant?

No, fruit flies are not harmful to fishbone plants. They are simply attracted to decaying organic matter in the soil.

Can I use insecticide to get rid of fruit flies on my fishbone plant?

It’s not recommended to use insecticide on your fishbone plant, as it can harm the plant itself. Instead, try removing decaying organic matter and changing the soil, or using an apple cider vinegar trap.

How long does it take to get rid of fruit flies on my fishbone plant?

It depends on the severity of the infestation and how well you follow the steps outlined above. It may take a few days or even a week to completely eliminate fruit flies from your fishbone plant.