Fungus gnats are an annoying pest houseplant owners are likely familiar with. These tiny flying insects are mostly a nuisance but can also be damaging to your plants in large numbers. There are many methods for getting rid of fungus gnats, but one of the best defenses is to prevent them entirely. Here are some of the best ways you can prevent fungus gnats from appearing in your plants:
As their name might suggest, fungus gnats thrive on the fungus growing in damp soil. They also prefer moist soil for laying their eggs. Therefore, a simple way to prevent them from taking up residence in your plants is to keep the top layer of soil dry. Try to go as long as possible between waterings if the plant allows, and consider switching to bottom-watering as an extra help.
Usually you'll find gnats around the top of the pot, but they can also end up in the drainage holes at the bottom. If they lay eggs in the drainage holes, you'll still have a problem even after completely replacing the soil in a pot.
Two things you can do to combat this are to wash and cover the drainage holes. Wash the pot thoroughly with soap and water before use, and use a coffee filter or another porous barrier inside the hole. Moisture can still drain out, but it will keep the gnats at bay--and prevent soil leakage.
You can also protect the top layer of soil from fungus gnats. One way is by covering the top of the soil with a thin layer of sand. The fungus gnats won't be able to penetrate through the sand to lay eggs in the soil beneath. While this method may not work perfectly on its own, it's an excellent way to double your defenses.
Fungus gnats are aggravating, but with the right tools and methods you can control and even eradicate them. Keep these strategies in mind when caring for your plants to keep them healthy and pest-free.
“I sell your home like it's mine”
A licensed real estate salesperson since 2016, Rob is affiliated with the Briarcliff Manor office of Corcoran Legends Realty. He serves buyers, sellers, renters, in Westchester, Rockland, and Putnam counties. Rob, a native of New York and Westchester County for most of his life, brings an extensive local knowledge of both residential and commercial properties to the table. His experience includes a wide range of property types – single-family, multi-family, condos and mixed use. “Hard to sell” properties is where Rob really excels. “There’s no problem that cannot be solved.”
Rob is certified for many different disciplines in real estate. Cartus Relocation Network Agent, AARP Agent, National Tenants Network (NTN) Agent, Green certified and Pricing Strategies Master. In addition, Rob has completed the Leader’s Edge Advanced training to better serve his clients. Rob has been both associate of the month and top closed dollar agent.
When you work with Rob, you get the feeling you’re his only client. Numbers don’t count, you do. Clients always come first. Each transaction is handled as if it were his own home. Rob strives to make the process as seamless as possible and takes care of all the details, no matter how small. His clients rave about his above-and-beyond service and prompt informative communication. Rob is easy going, friendly, and patient. However he can be a determined and aggressive negotiator when the need arises.
When not out actively working on behalf of his clients, Rob spends time with his wife and two teenage daughters. A devoted supporter of community he sits on several local boards and volunteers for numerous locale nonprofit organizations. He enjoys cycling, hiking, kayaking and winter skiing.
“May your price be right, and your sale be swift!”