Fungus Gnats
Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ in a Minute
Episode Archive
Episode #428 | Original Air Date: January 4, 2023
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Transcript
Fungus gnats are often a problem in households with potted plants. The larvae of these small, winged insects feed on decaying plant materials and fungus growing in the soil.
Fungus gnats are about an eighth of an inch long and look like a cross between a fruit fly and a mosquito. Adults are attracted to light and are often noticed at windows.
Fungus gnats are drawn to overwatered plants, so let the soil dry out between waterings, though you don’t want to harm your plants in the process. Another strategy is to drench the soil with an approved insecticide.
Give your houseplants proper care, and you’ll help keep these insects in check.
Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ in a Minute is a production of the University of Florida’s Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Program, IFAS Extension, and WUFT-FM in cooperation with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.
