---
title: "I used to have a real problem with gnats. I put up sticky paper, and…"
description: "I used to have a real problem with gnats. I put up sticky paper, and it has taken care of the problem. What did I do initially to cause the problem?"
url: "https://getplanta.com/community/lKxUkhzRR_aIJD7o1QvtwQ/Lgv0XifSrQfsSTaF9XtZgu"
community: "Pests, diseases and problems"
author: "Mary"
published: "2025-01-11T21:29:25.373279Z"
language: "en"
image: "https://images.getplanta.com/v2/cloudinary/global_data/communities/pestsDiseasesAndProblems.jpg"
---

[Community](https://getplanta.com/community.md) / [Pests, diseases and problems](https://getplanta.com/community/lKxUkhzRR_aIJD7o1QvtwQ.md)

# I used to have a real problem with gnats. I put up sticky paper, and…

_Posted by Mary on 2025-01-11_

I used to have a real problem with gnats. I put up sticky paper, and it has taken care of the problem. What did I do initially to cause the problem?

## 5 comments

### Wolfen 🐺 commented on 2025-01-11

They can just come in. The larvae are in the soil, and often you will see an explosion after you bring a new plant or soil into the home

### Alyssa commented on 2025-01-11

Usually infested soil, infested new plants, poor drainage, or not enough airflow

### Mary commented on 2025-01-12

Thank you for your replies. I did some investigation and found that once the problem is eliminated, a thin layer of sand can be laid down for prevention.

#### Wolfen 🐺 replied on 2025-01-12

You can use a layer of anything that will stop them from getting to the soil. Be careful with anything too fine, that will become anaerobic or prevent proper drying out.

### Mary commented on 2025-01-14

I also have them present in my bathroom. They seem to congregate around the drain!

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