Fungus Gnats Control Nz

Fungus gnats feed on decaying plant matter and fungi and thrive in moist conditions such as soil which is where they lay their eggs says derek gaughan founder of the diy pest control.

Fungus gnats control nz.

A combination of control techniques is required for successful management. The adults grow to about 1 16 to 1 8 inch long. One particular form of bacteria will destroy fungus gnat larvae. Fungus gnats sciaridae spp are the most common houseplant pest and are distinguished from fruit flies drosophila spp because of their darker color.

Oil sprays can harm palms and ferns spray deem around the roots instead. Natural pest fungus gnat control with hypoaspis miles. They can be identified by their narrow legs light gray or clear wings and segmented antennae that are larger than their heads. Fungus gnats and fruit flies are different.

They are often seen flying around plants in damp soil in gardens and indoor pot plants. Although they look a lot like tiny mosquitoes fungus gnats are small flies in the orfelia and bradysia species. Fungus gnats do best in damp soils. Be careful not to over water especially during winter months when plants require less water.

Once fungus gnats have started to damage plants it is usually too late to effectively protect them. Like many other greenhouse pest insects fungus gnats and shore flies are readily captured on yellow sticky traps. The adult flies are grey to black and 2 3 mm. Environmental fungus gnat control.

When potting avoid organic material that holds water such as algae which may encourage egg laying. About fungus gnats. Reject any plant sending up flying gnats. Inspect plants thoroughly prior to purchase for signs of insect pests.

Sundews are sticky carnivorous plants that can also keep fungus gnat numbers to a minimum. To kill fungus gnats you need to use bacillus variance israelensis bti also called h 14 strain. Turn up soil carefully near the base of the plant and look for the glossy clear larvae. Be careful not to overwater especially during winter months when plants use less.

If there s fungus gnat larvae in the soil spray the soil directly to thoroughly moisten the top then avoid watering until the soil has dried to at least a 2 depth. Fungus gnats do best in damp soils. Spray houseplant insect control spray around both soil and plants for gnats. While fruit flies hang out primarily near fruit rotten food and funky fridges you ll find fungus gnats in wet plant soil in sewer areas and in household drains.