flies...wonder if this would work to keep our runs and coops fly free

[mrsengeseth]

http://www.hobbyfarms.com/farm-industry-news/2011/02/01/catnip-proven-fly-repellent.aspx

In this article it suggests that catnip oil would keep flies away (maybe mosquitoes too). I worry that it would attract all the neighborhood cats in too, bringing me a new problem! But, what about just growing the plant around the chicken/duck area? I haven't noticed my cats too interested in the fresh plants, they like the dried better. But maybe that's just my three.

thoughts?

 

[Captain Carrot]

I know that strong smelling herbs like sage and rosemary keep pest away from vegtables. It might be worth a try. I don't have any troubles with flies in my shed my Muscovys are fantastic fly catchers

 

[95yj]

you can keep bees/wasps away with strong mint, it might work on flies too

 

[Sir Birdaholic]

The vanilla scented car air fresheners were mentioned on a post some while back. I tried it, & it works!

Very few flies in the barn anymore.

 

[elmo]

Starting a colony of black soldier flies in a biopod or just in your composter will get rid of house flies. Of course you do end up with the black soldier flies buzzing around but they don't spread disease like the house flies do, and you do get the benefit of quicker compost and the grubs to feed to your chickens if you wish. If you do want to use the grubs for your chickens, don't put chicken poo in the composter, though.

 

[patandchickens]

Quote:
People suggest this a lot. I have to say, I have large patches of both catnip and spearmint around the house and yard, and have NEVER noticed ANY fewer flies or mosquitos near them than anywhere else. So, color me skeptical, but try it if you want.

Pat

 

[secuono]

My 2 cats could care less about catnip, fresh or dried...
You have a fly issue in winter?? Or just preparing for spring?
Last summer we used those yellow bag attractors, cow farms all over. After 3-4 days, the WHOLE bag was filled. We tie em up high, the dog likes to play with nasty things...

 

[mrsengeseth]

Quote:
nah, just preparing for spring.