November 12, 2015
Knockout Gnats
As night temperatures going down and the days are getting short, outside gardening are coming to an end for this season. Many of the herbs growing outdoors can be transplanted from the garden to pots and then move inside for winter, which is almost an annual ritual for many people. However, with the lovely mint or rosemary or basil, another little creature may come in uninvited. Fungus gnats. Soon enough, these little pests are hovering over your beautiful new Cyclamen and threatening to move over to your ferns and other houseplants. And almost certainly, hovering around you.
Fungus gnats love houseplants because of the moist, rich soil ideal for breeding. They tend to make their home in indoor plants due to the consistently warm temperatures and reliable water sources. Or, in our case, come in with outdoor plants in the fall and thrive inside. On the bright side, fungus gnats do not bite like some other species of gnat. However, as annoying around people as they can be, fungus gnats invading your home can still lay hundreds of eggs in your plants and then the larvae can stunt your plants’ growth by feeding off their roots. Luckily, you don’t have to throw out the plants to get rid of the problem. Here are some tips to help you.
1. Always use only “clean” or “sterile” potting mix for indoor plants
2. Quarantine outdoor plants for 7 to 10 days before bringing them into your home
3. Remove dead leaves and other organic debris promptly
4. Do not over-water your plants
