Known as fungus gnats, they’re actually tiny flies, about 1/8-inch long, that are drawn to moist potting soil and decaying leaves on the surface of the soil around your plants. … Fungus gnats love to lay their eggs in damp potting soil. The eggs become larvae, which feed on fungi in the soil (hence their name).
Keeping this in view, how do you get rid of little black flies on houseplants?
Similarly, how do I get rid of gnats in potted soil?
Here’s how to naturally treat your houseplants and get rid of gnats in the soil.
- Make the Natural Habitat Inhospitable. …
- Use a Soap-and-Water Mixture. …
- Use Sand or Gravel. …
- Dispose of the Top Layer of Soil Outdoors. …
- Don’t Overwater Your Houseplants. …
- Water From the Bottom. …
- Store Extra Potting Soil in an Airtight Container.
What home remedy kills gnats in houseplants?
One-Part Water to One-Part Apple Cider Vinegar
Fill a shallow saucer with this solution and mix in a few drops of liquid dishwashing soap. Keep it near your affected plants. The gnats will fall into the liquid and the soap will keep them from escaping. Add fresh vinegar and water as needed until the gnats are gone.
Does vinegar get rid of gnats in houseplants?
However, instead of throwing the plant out, you can get rid of pesky fungus gnats using household vinegar. Pour one-quarter to one-half inch of apple cider vinegar into a clear or semi-opaque plastic cup, creating an effective fungus gnat trap. … Place the vinegar trap near your houseplant and check it daily.