Houseplant Fungus Gnats and Mystery Flies: Complete Control Guide

Aliyah repotted, overwatered, now has gnats and mini flies (like fruit flies but no fruit). Vinegar traps catch flies, not gnats. Favorite plant (long draping vines, heart-shaped leaves, variegated) has eaten leaf edges, shriveling, yellow/brown spots spreading. New to plants.

First: Identify Plants

Email photos to wcreed@HorticulturalHelp.com for species-specific care.

Fungus Gnat Control

• Adults: annoying, 5-day life, harmless.
• Target larvae in top soil layer.
• Dry soil thoroughly.
• Surface barrier: Coarse coir, sand, diatomaceous earth, or fine peat moss.
• Potato slices: ½" raw potato on soil overnight → discard with larvae. Repeat.
• Knock-Out Gnats (Gardens Alive, $20) for serious cases.
• Detection: Add water, watch for larvae swimming in surface pools.

Prevention

• Sterile, bark-free mix with perlite for drainage.
• Overwatering + poor soil = gnats.

Adult Traps

Red wine in small glass (cooking wine ok).

No-Soil Mix?

Not addressed directly; fix watering and soil first.