How Can You Prevent or Deal with Flies and Fungus Gnats?

Are you looking for ways to prevent and deal with flies and fungus gnats? If so, then this guide is for you! Flies and fungus gnats are a common problem for many people, but there are ways to prevent them as well as deal with them when they arise. These pests can be annoying and even damaging if left uncontrolled. Fortunately, there are several methods available to help you keep flies and fungus gnats away from your home or business.

Fungus gnats, also known as soil gnats, are small dark-colored flies that feed on decaying organic matter found in damp soil. The females lay eggs near the base of plants, which later hatch into larvae. The larvae feed on plant roots, causing wilting and yellowing of the leaves. Adult flies may also spread disease and contaminate food.

To prevent or deal with flies and fungus gnats, it’s important to keep the environment around your plants clean and dry. Remove any decaying plant debris, such as fallen leaves and flowers, and empty out water containers regularly. You should also avoid overwatering your plants. If possible, switch to a potting mix that does not contain composted ingredients like bark fines or processed forest products. The following are ways to prevent and deal with flies and fungus gnats.

1. Keep the soil dry: Allowing your houseplants to dry out between waterings will slow down or stop an infestation. Make sure the top inch or two of soil is completely dry before watering again, and try to go as long as possible between waterings.

2. Natural Methods: It is also possible to use natural methods to prevent and deal with flies and fungus gnats. Essential oils such as lavender, peppermint, and eucalyptus have been found to be effective in repelling these pests. Neem Oil is also a tried and true insecticide. Bonide Captain Jack's Neem Oil is a popular product used many different plant issues. Additionally, planting certain herbs and flowers around the house can help deter them from entering. Finally, beneficial insects such as ladybugs can be released into the garden to feed on the larvae and eggs of these pests but this may not be the best solutions for house plants.

3. Sticky traps: Sticky traps are an easy and effective way to catch these pests. Place several traps close to soil level as this is where adult flies and fungus gnats tend to crawl and fly. The adhesive on the trap will capture them, making it easier to get rid of them. Check them out here.

4. Cider Vinegar traps: Apple cider vinegar is another popular method for killing adult flies. Fill a shallow container with 1/4 inch of apple cider vinegar and a few drops of dish soap, and cover with plastic wrap. Poke a few holes in the top of the plastic wrap and the gnats will crawl through, only to drown in the solution.

5. Fly bait: If you have a severe infestation of fungus gnats, this is a great option. This product contains a chemical attractant or light that lures adult gnats away from plants and into a trap. Check these out...

Katchy Indoor Insect Trap

Fruit Fly Trap with Yellow Sticker

6. Chemical Solutions: There are also a number of different chemical alternatives you can use. You can find these as a granular form, great for indoor plants in containers to help kill the larvae, like this one. You can also find a spray that will kill the flies on contact. Check it out here.

7. Cover Drainage Holes: Another effective prevention technique is to cover drainage holes on the underside of a pot with a piece of synthetic fabric. This will prevent the gnats from getting in or out of the hole, while still allowing water to pass through freely. Finally, you can also cover exposed soil with a layer of sand at least 3/4 inch thick to keep fungus gnats away.

8. Mosquito Dunk: You can also use mosquito dunks, which contain beneficial bacteria that infect and kill the larvae of flying insects, including mosquitoes, fruit flies, and fungus gnats. To use mosquito dunks, fill up a gallon jug (or watering can) with clean water and toss in a mosquito dunk. Let the dunk soak in the water for as long as possible, then remove it from the water and use this water for fungus gnat–infested plants. Check it out here.

9. Practice good hygiene habits: Make sure to wash your hands after handling plants or soil, and always wear gloves when working in the garden. Keep your home and garden free of standing water and exposed food, and make sure to dispose of food waste properly. By following these simple steps, you can help ensure that your home and garden stay free of flies and fungus gnats.

Overall, there are various ways to prevent and deal with flies and fungus gnats. Proper sanitation and exclusion are key elements of prevention, while trapping and insecticides can be used to control existing infestations. Natural methods such as essential oils and beneficial insects can also be employed to minimize their presence in the home or garden. Taking the time to understand these pests and how to best protect yourself against them will ensure that your garden remains free of these pesky creatures.