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As the summer sunshine calls, a less welcome visitor in the form of irritating flies also arrives, keen to invade our homes.

You could shut your windows and doors to try keeping them at bay, but that would mean sacrificing the lovely drift of summer air inside.

Rather than reaching for traditional chemical sprays with their complicated ingredients or the pointless flapping of a tea towel, a more fragrant answer sits within our grasp.

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The gardening specialists at Perfect Plants recommend positioning particular plants on windowsills and in kitchens as natural repellents against these annoying creatures.

They suggested: "Fill your windowsills and kitchens with pots or vases of the following to help deter insects.", reports the Mirror.

Basil isn't just for cooking purposes - its oils emit an earthy scent that's genuine kryptonite to flies and other unwanted pests.

As the specialists explained: "A pot of growing basil is not just tasty in pesto sauce, in salads, soups, with fish, and on pasta, but it makes your room smell fresh and clean too. What's more, flying insects and other bugs tend to stay away from the aroma of the foliage as they can't stand it."

Simply brush the leaves when the breeze drifts through open windows to release the basil's natural insect-repelling power, as reported by The Express, reports Galway Beo.

Lavender In addition to its famed tranquillising qualities, lavender remains beneficial beyond its bloom. Crafting sachets from its dried blossoms can protect wardrobes from invading moths and various critters.

Hang these fragrant parcels around and tuck some sprigs amongst your socks to ward off both moths and assorted pests.

Bring some into your home and give the leaves a shake for the best results. It emits a pleasant aroma to humans - but not to flies and mosquitoes.

Despite its ordinary, green look, mint plants will immediately deter any flies that come near them with their sweet scent and flavour, and they thrive indoors if properly watered.