The Israeli summer brings with it sun, heat, and of course – flies. These annoying airborne pests sneak into the house in search of shelter from the humidity and heat, quickly becoming unwelcome guests. They buzz around the food, land on the kitchen counter, and make us itch with frustration. But what if we told you there’s a simple, natural, and very cheap solution that can turn your home into a fly-free zone? And the best part? You probably already have it in your fridge.
Pest control experts reveal a little secret for repelling flies: Cucumbers. Yes, the same crisp green vegetable that stars in our classic salad is also a secret weapon against flies. It turns out that houseflies can’t stand the smell of cucumbers, especially the more bitter varieties.
How does it work? Very simply. Cut a few slices of cucumber and place them near entry points like windows and doors, or in places where flies tend to gather (such as near the kitchen trash can). The cucumbers release a gentle scent that drives flies away, and they’ll go looking for another place to party. Even fruit flies, which prefer sweet fruits, tend to avoid cucumbers. With a kilo of cucumbers costing around NIS 10 at the supermarket, it’s an incredibly cheap solution that fits any budget.
But, like everything in life, there’s a small catch. Experts warn: Don’t forget about them and let the cucumber slices rot.
So next time you’re at the supermarket, consider tossing in another cucumber or two. Not only will they add crunch to your salad, but they’ll also help keep your home free of annoying insects.