Baiting a Fly Trap

Liquid Yeast Bait

• 1

  Heat 2 quarts of water, using a cooking thermometer to get the water between 95 degrees and 105 degrees Fahrenheit. If the water is warmer than 105 degrees, it kills the yeast; and if it is cooler than 95 degrees the yeast will not proof. Pour the water into a narrow-necked plastic bottle. A clean milk or bleach jug works well.

• 2

  Add the yeast and aluminum carbonate to the water. Aluminum carbonate adds to the odor of the bait, but is not necessary for the bait to work. Aluminum carbonate acts as an antacid. Purchase from your local drugstore or chemical supply house. Secure the lid on the jug and shake the contents.

• 3

  Loosen the cap, and allow the yeast to ferment for two days. When the foam recedes, tighten the lid.

• 4

  Ripen the yeast mixture with the lid tightly sealed for four to 10 days in an area 60 degrees Fahrenheit or warmer.

• 5

  Check the yeast mixture every day. When it is smelly, it is ready to be used as bait. Pour a small amount in the base of the fly trap. Store the remainder away from sunlight, children and pets.

Beltsville Bait

• 6

  Mix sugar, baking powder, 2 oz. yeast, dried blood or bone meal, and honey together in a large bowl. Add up to 2 tbsp. of water to moisten the mixture if necessary.

• 7

  Press the mix into the individual compartments of a plastic ice cube tray. Let the bait harden for two hours.

• 8

  Dump the bait cubes from the tray, and spread them out to dry completely and form hard bricks. Store dry blocks in a cool, dry place.

• 9

  Add two dry cubes to 2 quarts of water. Dissolve the cubes completely. Pour the bait into the pan at the base of the fly trap.

• 10

  Store unused bait liquid away from sunlight, children and pets.