Gnats
Fungus gnats thrive in overly moist potting soil and swarm near indoor plants.
Background & Behavior
(Sciaridae)
Commonly referred to as fungus gnats, these small flying insects thrive in moist environments and around potted plants. They lay eggs in damp soil, and larvae feed on organic matter and plant roots. While mostly a nuisance, heavy infestations can damage
DIY Approaches
- Allow the top inch of soil to dry before watering houseplants.
- Top dress plant pots with a layer of horticultural sand to deter egg laying.
- Use yellow sticky cards near plant foliage to capture adult gnats.
- Repot plants with fresh sterile soil if infestations persist.
- Water with a diluted hydrogen peroxide solution to kill larvae.
Professional Services
- Request greenhouse pest management services for large plant collections.
- Have interior plant care companies adjust irrigation schedules and soil mixes.
- Schedule biological control releases such as predatory mites for commercial atriums.
- Coordinate building maintenance to repair leaks boosting humidity.
- Engage pest firms for recurring monitoring of lobby and office plantings.
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