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Proper Watering Prevents Problems with Fungus Gnats

When houseplants and garden seedlings are kept too wet, roots can rot and the fungus that grows in the soil can feed fungus gnats. For houseplants, fungus gnats are usually just a nuisance. When growing seedlings or in a greenhouse adults can spread fungal diseases to flowers. Larvae can spread fungal diseases when they feed on roots.

Where do fungus gnats come from?  Fungus gnats can get in the home when plants are brought in from outside, or when transplanting plants with infested potting soil.

How do you manage fungus gnats? Avoid over-watering your plants.  Plants need less water in cloudy days in winter and spring.  As such, it is easy to over-water plants if you water by the calendar.   It is better to check you plants to see if they need water by touching the surface to see if it is dry.   After you water, do not let plants sit in a pan of water.  Letting the soil dry between watering will reduce fungus and the rate of population growth.   Insecticides are rarely needed for houseplants.  Numerous options are available for greenhouse professionals.

Reference for Professionals

Massachusetts Greenhouse Pest Guide  https://greenhousepestguide.umass.edu

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