What is the best way to get rid of gnats? I bought a gorgeous Tradescantia Nanouk from a woman on fb and after having it I’ve discovered it’s riddled with gnats! Heartbreaking to this new plant person…I have tried Neem oil thus far and the plant is slowly turning brown in some areas, it looks very sick. HELP!
Success with gnats for me has been all about bottom watering and, in some cases, treating with dilute hydrogen peroxide (1:4 dilution of basic over-the-counter 3% peroxide with distilled water, applied like a regular top water). For the browning parts, I'm not so sure-- make sure you're not getting the neem on the plant if you're treating for gnats, and maybe prop it just in case? I'm sure the more experienced growers here will have good advice for helping it recover.
1 likeThank you!
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My plant started having brown spots after neem oil too ! Are you keeping it away from a window ? Also to get rid of nats I would recommend diatomaceous earth ! ( I use it on all my plants and there thriving)
1 likeYes! Do you just sprinkle the DE on the top?
0 likesIt is near a window. Is that bad for it?
0 likes Yes I do and remember it will not stay in the soil if you top water ! So bottom water ! And I use about 3 or so small scoops it kills the gnat eggs and any gnats that are on the soil
1 like It may be getting sunburned is it getting direct sunlight?
0 likes And if it gets worse I would just repot and rince the roots
1 likeThat’s kinda my thought at this point. But I am extremely new to having plants and don’t want to make things worse…🥹
0 likes Yeah I’m here to help I had these same issues when I started too !
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The only thing that has ever worked for me is Bonide Systemic Houseplant Insect Control which is mixed into the soil. I also use the sticky yellow traps which show just how bad infestations are (get a big pack and change frequently as they fill up)
1 likeJust ordered some from Amazon! Thanks. Do you suggest that I repot and mix it into new soil too?
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I would did it to a couple of my plants. It Help get rid of most spread some coffee grains on the top of your soil. Helps with keeping them from laying eggs. Its natural I also put like a layer of little rocks bit of sand just so the top is dry. It helps keep the moisture in the soil as well
2 likesThank you!
0 likes I don’t usually repot when I treat but it probably wouldn’t hurt. I usually sprinkle on top of the soil and then mix in with a fork to an inch or two and then sprinkle a bit more on top. I agree with Dee about putting a layer of rocks or sand on top of the soil to deter any further egg laying in the future.
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