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gnat are more than just a pocket-size vexation ; these midget pest buzz around with a persistence that ’s hard to ignore . They often set their flock on our houseplants , lingering and shake up the plant ’s ataraxis . For industrial plant lover , battling these pests can be quite frustrating .
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Fortunately , there ’s igniter at the end of the tunnel . Here are ten effective ways to keep gnats away from your house plants .
Use Quality Soil
To keep gnats out from your houseplants , start by using high - quality , well - draining soil . Contaminated or inadequate - lineament soil is a common style gnats are inaugurate to your indoor garden .
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Allow the Soil to Dry
grant the top bed of your plant ’s grunge todry out between waterings . Gnats flourish in wet stipulation , so letting the grease wry can prevent their larvae from thriving .
Layer the Soil with Sand or Gravel
Consider topping your soil with grit or gravel . This improves drain and discourages gnat from laying eggs by creating a roadblock they ca n’t easily penetrate .
Do Not Overwater
Be aware of your watering habits . Overwatering is a big welcome sign for gnats , creating an ideal training ground for them . ascertain you ’re watering your plants as require .
If you ’re uncertain when to water , a simple touch sensation test by inserting your finger into the soil can guide you . Also , ensure your pots have passable drain to forestall water from pooling .
intercept Drowning Your works : 14 direction to ready Soggy Soil
Proper Pot Drainage
miserable drainage can put up to gnat infestations , as weewee can accumulate in the bottom of the pot , creating a dampish environment for the dirt ball . pick out peck that have drain holes for optimum ground drainage .
Remove Dead Leaves
Keep the works surface area straighten by quickly removing dead or decaying leaf . Gnats are drawn to break up constitutional topic , and a clean soil surface is less inviting for them .
Hydrogen Peroxide Solution
Ahydrogen peroxidesolution can be a safe bet for tackling gnat larvae directly . merge one part 3%hydrogen peroxidewith four parts water system and habituate it to irrigate your plant life .
Essential Oil Spray
An all important oil spray can be good as a natural repellent . combine urine with a few drops ofpeppermint , eucalyptus tree , orteatree crude , and spritz lightly on the soil and foliation .
Use Sticky Traps
sensationalistic sticky trap are great for catching grownup gnats . Their attraction to the color means many will get trapped before they can lay more orchis . Thesesticky trapsare the best .
Neem Oil
Applyingneem oilto the soil acts as a raw insect powder , targeting gnat larvae without harming your plant .
Cinnamon
A scattering ofcinnamonon the filth can do duple purpose : it has fungicidal properties that help prevent fungus gnats and adds a pleasant olfactory property to your plant domain .
Use Coffee Grounds
For burnt umber - love houseplants , you’re able to use deep brown ground to keep gnats at bay . When you ’re in the process of repotting your houseplant , consider contain a low quantity of used coffee ground into your potting soil .
The strong smell of coffee flat coat is considered unattractive to gnat and other pests , roleplay as a natural repellant .
How to Use Coffee Grounds on Houseplants
If you ’ve been in the habit of but disposing of your coffee reason each good morning , you should rethink your access . Coffee flat coat tender an eco - well-disposed alternative for enhancing your plant ’s soil timber and promote growth . Coffee grounds have nutrients that plants care , so they can ameliorate your soil and play as a born fertilizer . Here ’s how .
