Fungus Gnats, Soil Beetles, and Spider Mites: Integrated Control

Fungus gnats (tiny flies) breed in moist soil. Beetle-like bugs in soil are likely harmless scavengers. Spider mites on ivy need separate treatment.

Fungus Gnat Control

1. Dry out soil: Top 1-2 inches dry between waterings.
2. Surface barrier: ½ inch sand, diatomaceous earth, or coconut coir.
3. Potato traps: ¼-inch raw potato slices on soil overnight; discard with larvae.
4. Biological: Steinernema feltiae nematodes or Hypoaspis mites (Gnat Not).

Spider Mites on Ivy

1. Spray thoroughly with 1 tsp soap + 1 tsp alcohol per quart water, weekly x3.
2. Increase humidity; mites hate moisture.
3. Systemic granules (imidacloprid) in soil for persistent cases.

Prevention

• Sterile potting mix with perlite.
• Quarantine new plants 2 weeks.
• Avoid overwatering—root cause of gnats.