I see a lot of posts asking how to handle fungus gnats. I had a bad time with them last year. Did a lot of research and trial/error. So, here is a summary of advice and products, not just what works for me, but what others mention that works for them too. Yellow sticky traps or other flying bug traps: Great as general maintenence for the adults and an indicator of the severity. But this does not get rid of them! There are still eggs and larvae living in the soil. This is where the focus needs to be in order to get free of them. Systemic granules: I use everytime I repot or bring a new plant home by mixing it into soil. It makes the plants less "tasty" to bugs and not just gnats. It needs to be reapplied about 6-8 months. Takes time to see results initially, so definitely use for control and maintenence. Mosquito bits "tea": Works for some by adding it to their watering routine. I didn't see too big of difference. But, I think using this is good for control and maintenence. Diatomaceous Earth: This was my game changer. I spent over 4 hrs on a Sunday (I have 150 plants) sprinkling it onto the dry soil of my plants. Within days there was such a dramatic decline. I cried when I realized I spent a full day working in my home office and I had not batted away 1 single gnat or that I didn't need to refill my water glass because 2-3 gnats decided to go for a swim in it. People also mention beneficial nematodes or other natural bugs as being their success. I don't know too much about this and haven't used any, but it may be worth a try. Finally this gnat spray: If sensitive to smells, be careful. It's a strong scent. If I notice a gnat stuck on a trap, I spray the soil of that plant and the ones next it. I'm finding it good for maintenence. It's been well over a year. I would love to say my home is 100% gnat free, but I can go weeks without seeing one, so I'll say 99%! Good luck with your battle!
