Fungus gnats are small flying insects that can commonly be found infesting the soil of indoor plant pots. These gnats only reach two to five millimeters in size, with dark bodies and long thin wings. Commonly silverfish-look a likes, fungus gnat larvae causes effects on plants such as yellowing or wilting leaves, inhibiting root growth and overall reduction in a healthy appearance. If fungus gnat symptoms are seen, luckily there are homemade remedies that can help to reduce the population's size.
What attracts fungus gnats?
Fungus gnats are small, fragile flying insects that feed on fungus and other organic matter. As the name implies, fungus is an attractant to these pests which makes them common in moist soils and organic potting mixes found in plant pots. Fungus gnats have a short lifespan of only a few weeks but their reproduction rate is remarkable; they can lay up to 300 eggs at once. Prevention measures like using sterile soil, running a fan near the plants, avoiding overwatering and introducing beneficial predator insects are key steps in keeping fungus gnat populations down.
How to prevent fungus gnats with sand/pot topper
To prevent fungus gnats from taking up residence around your plants, you can top the pots with an inch or two of sand. This will act as a barrier to fungus gnat invasions by preventing their eggs from sticking to the soil surface, and making it difficult for fungus gnat larvae to access and feed on plant roots. Be sure to check the sand regularly for fungus gnat inhabitation and replace or dispose of it when necessary. With this simple pot-topping strategy, fungus gnats don't stand a chance!
Extra Effective Pot Topper
For extra effective protection we recommend you use a top topper specifically designed to prevent gnats. Make sure you get a topper that contains diatomaceous earth helps by killing adult gnats as they try to burrow through. Also try make sure the topper is PH neutral so it doesn't effect your plants.
How to get rid of fungus gnats with tea tree oil
An effective and affordable way to manage fungus gnats is to use tea tree oil; this natural solution can help you get rid of fungus gnats with minimal effort. To begin, combine 1 litre of water with 25 drops of an 100% pure tea tree oil in a spray bottle. Subsequently, thoroughly mist the soil and leaves of plants that have been affected by fungus gnats; this will ensure that the fungus gnats are eradicated deep within the soil as well. Finally, repeat this process once every two weeks for maximum success. Using tea tree oil is an excellent choice for gardeners looking for a reliable fungus-gnat solution without breaking their budget.
How to get rid of fungus gnats with lavender oil
To use lavender oil to keep fungus gnats away, simply add 25 few drops of oil to 1 litre of water and pour over the soil where fungus gnats are active. The scent and flavor of the oil will deter fungus gnats from wanting to be near it, thus keeping them away. Be sure to move the pot if they persist, as fungus gnats tend to lay their eggs in the same areas. With this method using lavender oil, you can easily keep fungus gnats away with minimal effort!
How to get rid of fungus gnats with neem oil
An effective solution to fungus gnat infestations is the use of neem oil, a natural pesticide derived from the neem tree. Neem oil works by disrupting the life cycle of fungus gnats; adult fungus gnats that come into contact with neem oil will be killed within minutes, while larvae will take longer to die off. To prevent fungus gnat infestations, create a regular spraying schedule using neem oil and apply it directly onto your garden. Mix 10ml of neem oil with 1 litre of water before spraying over the leaves and soil.
How to get rid of fungus gnats with garlic
All you have to do is peel some cloves of garlic and dice them up before sprinkling over the soil. Fungus gnats will not be able to stand the strong smell of garlic, so this easy solution should keep fungus gnat problems to a minimum.
How to get rid of fungus gnats with parsley
Parsley is a natural, readily available solution for fungus gnat infestations. All you need to do is chop up the parsley and spread it over the soil of affected plants. Not only will its odor repel fungus gnats but also its antibacterial nature will help to keep fungus at bay as well. So try using parsley next time you have fungus gnats lurking around your houseplants - you'll be glad you did!
How to get rid of fungus gnats with nutmeg
Nutmeg is a surprisingly versatile tool when it comes to tackling fungus gnats. While fungus gnats are troublesome little insects found often in wet soil, nutmeg can be sprinkled around the pot or container where fungus gnats may take up residence. Its scent is effective enough to repel them, making it easy and cost-effective for any home gardener to ward off fungus gnats. For an extra measure of protection, a solution of one teaspoon of nutmeg in a gallon of water can also be sprayed directly on the plants that fungus gnats may be attracted to. Nutmeg is a natural and engaging way to keep fungus from ruining your garden.
How to get rid of fungus gnats with matches
Using matches is a surprisingly effective way of reducing fungus gnat populations. To use this method, simply light a load of matches before sticking them just 1cm head down into the soil. This method works because matchsticks contain sulphur which has been known to deter fungus gnats from reproducing. While more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness, this has been found to be a great solution for short-term fungus gnat control for those who don't want to apply harsh chemicals.
How to get rid of fungus gnats with tights
This unusual solution can help keep fungus gnats at bay - tights! Fasten a pair of them onto your flower pot, stretching from the bottom up and around the stem. Not only does this form an effective barrier to prohibit egg laying but also prevents any opportunity for mating outside the confines of your potted plant. Don't skimp on effectiveness with shorter durations: For best results make sure you leave it be for six weeks or more.
How to get rid of fungus gnats with coffee grind
Using coffee grind will not only get rid of fungus gnats, but it also provides essential nutrients for your plants due to the high sulphur content. To use coffee grinds against fungus gnats, simply sprinkle around the affected plants both near and on the soil surface. The caffeine in the coffee will repel fungus gnats as well as kill their population through dehydration. If you are looking for a natural, safe way to defeat fungus gnats this season, simply pour out some of your used coffee grind to drive away these pests.
How to get rid of fungus gnats with baking powder
Fungus gnats can be difficult pests to get rid of, but baking powder can be used as an effective home treatment. To start, create a mixture of equal parts baking powder and sulphur and spread it on top of the soil where fungus gnats are found. The sulphur will help combat any fungus or fungus-like organisms that may attract fungus gnats, while the baking powder will act as a desiccant and absorb moisture from the soil which is necessary for these pests to survive. This home remedy should be applied every two weeks until fungus gnat populations are gone.
