Fungus gnats are unwelcome guests in any home. If you've discovered fungus gnats in your house it is important to take quick action to stop the infestation before it grows.
One of the most common fly species found in homes, fungus gnats enter residential properties when fungi sprout on excess moisture in or around a residence. If you've ever wondered why there are so many flies in apartment, it could be a sign of an underlying moisture issue attracting pests like fungus gnats.
In addition to scaring away house guests and annoying homeowners, fungus gnats can also spread diseases like E. coli and salmonella. Is your property infested with fungus gnats? Call Ehrlich at 800-837-5520 or contact us online to set up a free inspection with a licensed fly control technician by clicking the button below.
Fungus gnats usually come from moist, organic-rich soil, especially in potted plants. Their eggs are often introduced through store-bought soil or by bringing outdoor plants indoors. They can also enter homes through open windows or doors if conditions are right.
You’re most likely seeing fungus gnats because they’ve found ideal conditions to breed—namely, wet soil and organic matter. Overwatering houseplants is the most common reason they appear indoors. They may also be drawn to drain areas, compost bins, or overripe produce.
Spotting a few gnats here and there might not seem like a big deal, but a full infestation can happen quickly. Here’s what to look for:
One of the first things people notice is the presence of small black flies near windows, lamps, or sink areas. Fungus gnats are weak fliers, so they tend to hover rather than fly long distances. They're often seen resting on leaves, the rims of pots, or crawling along windowsills.
Without specialized training, it is difficult to identify a fungus gnat from other types of small flies. However, adult fungus gnats have long, slender bodies that are mosquito-like in appearance, but without the long proboscis. Many fungus gnat species will have smoke-colored wings that feature a Y-shaped vein. The average adult fungus gnat grows to a length of one-eighth of an inch.
While adults are a nuisance, the real concern lies in what’s happening below the surface. Fungus gnat larvae are white with little black heads. They live in the top layer of soil and feed on organic matter, including plant roots. You can sometimes spot them by gently disturbing the soil around your plants. If the top inch of soil feels overly wet and you notice tiny moving larvae, it’s time to take action.
If you're noticing repeated activity or aren't sure which pest you're dealing with, our residential pest control team can help inspect your space and recommend the right treatment plan.
Call now to book your free inspection.
Getting rid of fungus gnats requires a thorough approach that targets both the visible adult flies and the larvae hidden in the soil. When the infestation is persistent, a fly control technician will assess the affected areas, identify breeding sources, and apply targeted treatments.
Spot applications - It highly recommended that homeowners hire a pest control professional to apply fungus gnat treatments to ensure the flies are eliminated effectively and safely. It is important to remember that applications should not be applied to any areas where food is prepared or cooked.
Fly baits - Fly baits are also commonly used to get rid of fungus gnats. Effective with various species of small flies, baits coated in sugar attract and kill the flies in the area. Again, fly baits should only be applied by a pest control professional. Depending on the product that is used, fly baits can be effective for multiple months.
Fly light traps - Insect light traps are an effective tool against fungus gnats. While these devices are typically for commercial customers, they are very proficient at protecting properties from flying insects.
Even if you eliminate an infestation, fungus gnats can return quickly if the underlying conditions don’t change. Prevention involves consistent care and attention to moisture and plant health. Here are some ways you can help prevent fungus gnats from coming back.
The single most important step in preventing fungus gnats is proper watering. Most indoor plants don’t need to be watered every day. Allowing the top inch or two of soil to dry out between waterings helps disrupt the gnat life cycle and reduces the risk of future outbreaks. Stick to a watering schedule that fits your specific plants, and avoid watering from the top if you notice repeated gnat problems.
Choose pots with drainage holes and avoid potting mixes that retain moisture for long periods. Avoid using dense, poorly-draining soil, especially for houseplants that prefer drier conditions. Empty saucers after watering and avoid letting pots sit in standing water. If you're reusing old pots, make sure they’re cleaned and sterilized to remove any leftover larvae or eggs.
Although potted plants are the most common source of fungus gnats, they can also breed in moist, organic buildup inside household drains. Regularly cleaning your kitchen and bathroom drains with a scrub brush and boiling water, or an enzymatic cleaner, can help eliminate this hidden breeding area and keep flies from spreading.
Before adding a new plant to your indoor collection, it’s a good idea to inspect it closely. Check the soil for signs of gnats or larvae. If possible, isolate new plants in a separate area for a few days and monitor for activity. Also, avoid storing open bags of potting soil indoors, as fungus gnat eggs can survive in the soil until conditions become favorable.
Recurring or widespread infestations often need expert intervention. Our pest control technicians can provide targeted treatments, ongoing monitoring, and fly prevention strategies that help keep fungus gnats from coming back.
Speak to an Ehrlich expert at 844-867-1870 to have all your fungus gnat questions answered or to schedule an inspection with a technician in your local area.
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