Bugs Around Your Potted Plants?

Even though temperatures are chilly outside, are you having bug problems indoors? Have you seen little, black gnats flying around your home? If these gnats are found around house plants, you could have a fungus gnat problem.

Fungus gnats are dark brownish-black with long, slender legs and antennae. The wings are clear to smoky with few distinct veins. Larvae are maggot-like, creamy in color and found in the soil of potted plants. Larvae feed on decaying organic matter and sometimes roots of plants.

No real treatment is required for fungus gnats, as they are more of a nuisance than a problem, but to get rid of them, the source must be located and managed. Larvae prefer very moist environments, so allow soil to completely dry out between waterings. Larvae can be killed by using insecticide soil drenches and adults can often be captured utilizing fly strips, traps or lights.

For more information or help with identification, contact Wizzie Brown, Texas AgriLife Extension Service Program Specialist at 512.854.9600.

updated: 05/14/2008