Friday 18 September 2015

Control Fungus Gnats

Control Fungus Gnats


Although fungus gnats are not harmful to humans or animals, they are quite a nuisance and can destroy plants. The gnats belong to the Diptera order of small flies. They are about 1/8 inch long and look a bit like a mosquito, with a long, delicate body and thin legs. Fungus gnats are usually noticed indoors, where they can breed and live their entire lives. They are particularly attracted to organic materials, such as potting soil or compost. Does this Spark an idea?


Instructions


1. Locate the source of the problem. If you have indoor plants, this is probably the cause, but other sources could include leaky pipes or poorly ventilated areas.


2. Avoid introducing old or infested plants into the home. It is quite likely that they are also infested with fungus gnats and will only compound the problem.


3. Allow plant soil to dry completely between waterings. This will discourage the gnats from breeding in the soil.


4. Screen all doors and windows if fungus gnats are a problem indoors.


5. Use biological control insects such as rove beetles and ground beetles to control fungus gnat populations outdoors.


6. Place several pieces of chopped raw potato on the surface of the soil for several hours. This will draw any larvae to the surface so you can destroy them.


7. Use sticky traps to attract and catch fungus gnats.

Tags: Control Fungus, Control Fungus Gnats, fungus gnats, This will