Fungus Gnats in Mass Cane: Dry Soil Surface Breaks Cycle

Tiny Dark Flies in Mass Cane (Dracaena) Soil

Fungus gnats—size of fruit flies, dark, stay near soil. Nuisance; large populations damage roots.

Cultural Control (Best)

Let soil dry to 1 knuckle depth before watering. Gnats live in top cm; drying crashes population. Pesticides ineffective.

Why They Recur

• Organic-rich potting mix.
• Constant moisture.
• New plants often come with eggs.

Note

Repotting with new soil helps temporarily but gnats return if watering stays frequent. Adjust watering permanently.