What Are Fungus Gnats?
Fungus gnats are tiny insects that can be a nuisance in your home or garden. They are attracted to damp soil and can quickly multiply, making it difficult to get rid of them. Fortunately, there are several effective methods for controlling fungus gnats.
Read to the end for a bonus method that includes a plant that digests and thrives on these tiny pests.
Table of Contents
How to get rid of fungus gnats and prevent infestations.
1. Bottom Watering
One of the most effective ways to prevent fungus gnats is to water your plants from the bottom. This means placing your plants in a tray or saucer filled with water and allowing the soil to soak up the water from the bottom. This will keep the top layer of soil dry, which is where fungus gnats like to lay their eggs. Learn more about bottom watering with these 3 Simple Steps to Bottom Watering Your Plants.
2. Mosquito Bits
Another effective method for controlling fungus gnats is to use mosquito bits. These are small pellets made from the bacteria Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (BTI), which is toxic to the larvae of fungus gnats. Simply sprinkle the mosquito bits on the soil surface and water as usual. The larvae will ingest the BTI and die, preventing them from developing into adult gnats. Get a 30oz bag of Mosquito Bits Here (Amazon)
3. Sticky Traps
Sticky traps are another effective way to control fungus gnats. These are small yellow or blue cards coated with a sticky substance that attracts and traps the adult gnats. Simply place the traps near your plants and replace them as needed. Try these yellow, attractive sticky traps shown in the photo (Amazon)
4. Insecticide
If the above methods do not work, you may need to use an insecticide to control the fungus gnats. Insecticides are chemicals that kill the gnats and their larvae. However, it is important to use insecticides carefully and follow the instructions on the label to avoid harming your plants, pets, or yourself. Try something like Arber Bio Insecticide (Amazon)
Bonus Method
Carnivorous plants like the Sundew can help keep fungus gnats at bay. The Sundew plant is known for its ability to eat insects, including fungus gnats. The plant has sticky, glandular hairs on its leaves that trap insects, and then it secretes digestive enzymes to break down the insect’s body for nutrients.
When a fungus gnat lands on a Sundew plant, the sticky hairs on the leaves will trap the insect, and the plant will begin to digest it. The Sundew plant is particularly effective at controlling fungus gnats because it is attracted to the same moist environments that the gnats thrive in.
While the Sundew plant can be a helpful addition to your home or garden for controlling fungus gnats, it is important to note that it should not be relied on as the sole method of control. The other four methods mentioned earlier should be used in conjunction with the Sundew plant to ensure effective control of fungus gnats.
My favorite shop for carnivorous plants is Predatory Plants. Every order includes all the supplies you need to get started.
Remember to monitor your plants by inspecting them closely. Watching out for pests is part of the 10 tips in this Beginner’s Guide for Selecting and Caring for Indoor Plants.
TL;DR Summary
Getting rid of fungus gnats can be a challenge, but with the right approach, it is possible to control them. Bottom watering, mosquito bits, sticky traps, and biocide are all effective methods for controlling fungus gnats. Carnivorous plants like the Sundew can be used in addition to these methods. By using these methods, you can keep your plants (and your sanity) healthy and free from these pesky insects.