What fungus gnats actually are
The adults are those tiny flying bugs near your pot. The real problem is the larvae in the soil, feeding on fungus and soft roots.
Confirm fungus gnats
- Adults hover around soil, not leaves
- You see more after watering
- Sticky traps catch many small black flies
Treatment plan that works
Step 1: Dry the top layer
Larvae thrive in wet soil.
- Let the top 1 to 2 inches dry between watering.
Step 2: Trap the adults
Sticky traps reduce the next generation.
- Place traps close to the soil surface.
Step 3: Target larvae
If infestation is heavy, consider:
- BTI (mosquito bits) in watering can
- A thin layer of sand or top dressing to reduce egg laying
Prevention
- Avoid consistently wet soil
- Use well-draining mix
- Do not let old leaves rot on top of the soil