How Serious Are FLIES and Gnats?
They are a nuisance pest since they do not cause major damage to homes and their life cycle is generally very short (about four weeks).
However, gnats may threaten human health should they transport pathogens from their unsanitary development sites.
Since fruit flies might contaminate food, and fungus gnats can harm potted plants,
residents should eliminate potential breeding and developmental sites. Gnats will multiply and create an unclean environment.
How Did I Get Gnats?
Moisture and organic material attract gnats. Some species prefer the soil of houseplants, while others seek out decomposing food debris in garbage
disposals or on damaged and over-ripe fruit. Any wetness in the home or unsanitary habits can draw them indoors. Once inside,
gnats are able to take advantage of conditions for continuous development and reproduction.
Prevention Tips
- Inspect soil of potted plants and look for adult gnats flying around the plants. This can be an indication that the soil under the plant is a breeding source.
- Don’t overwater your plants. Let the soil dry out completely This will kill the larval stages in the soil.
- Gnats may be entering the building from the outside. Check the plants, soil and organic matter outside near entry points like doors and windows.
Even without over watering, landscaped areas may retain moisture long enough to permit the fungus to grow; making conditions for breeding gnats.
- Raking the soil or mulch will killing the existing fungi, as it is exposed to air and light.
- Because gnats are attracted to lights, exterior lighting on your home may be attracting fungus gnats from neighboring areas.
- Look for water leaks or moisture problems inside. Water stains, swelled wall coverings, peeling paint are often strong indicators of a
moisture problem. If fungus is growing there, these gnats could be breeding there too.
- Fruit should not be exposed to open air. Keeping fruit in the refrigerator protects it from gnats and also prolongs the fruit’s period of ripeness.
- Clean your drains and cover with rubber drain plugs
- Don't stop looking when one breeding the source has been found. In most cases, multiple breeding sources will be present.
Very sharp young man. Gave us very good suggestions and was well spoken. Very satisfied.
5/11/2018
Rick Spellman - Snohomish
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