Fungus Gnats from Bagged Soil: Sterilization and Control

Tiny bugs on pots after repotting with drugstore soil = fungus gnats from non-sterile mix. Your wandering jew (Tradescantia zebrina) care: medium-high to low light, dry between waterings, leach monthly.

Immediate Control

• Dry soil completely—destroys gnat habitat.
• Spray soil with alcohol/soap/water mix (1–2 tsp each per bottle).
• Treat ALL plants—gnats spread fast.
• Yellow sticky traps catch adults.

Prevention

• Buy only "sterilized" potting soil.
• Inspect bags for tears.
• Bake questionable soil at 350°F 15 minutes, cool before use.

Resource

evergrowing.com/tips/bugs.htm has detailed gnat lifecycle and controls.

Gnats are a nuisance, not plant killers. Dry soil stops them.