Master Gardener Laura Simpson offers tips on stopping fungus gnats, aphids, mealybugs and other soft-bodied insects.
What if you already have some pests? First, isolate the affected plants so the problem doesn’t spread. If the infestation is isolated to only part of the plant, prune away the affected branches. For aphids, mealybugs and other soft-bodied insects, spot treat with a cotton swab dipped in rubbing alcohol. Pay close attention to the base of leaf petioles, where they like to hang out. Spider mites can sometimes be removed with a strong jet of water.
If you decide to use any pesticide , make sure you’ve identified which pest you’re dealing with. Not all pesticides work on all pests! Insecticidal soap is effective against many soft-bodied insects and mites, but usually multiple treatments are necessary. Always check labels and select a product that is designated for indoor use. Sometimes treatments can stain or damage indoor surfaces such as wood or upholstery, so treat the plant outside and allow it to dry before bringing it back inside.
Fungus gnats are not just a nuisance — their larvae can cause significant damage to a young plant’s roots. If possible, allow the soil to dry out completely to kill any larvae. This process may have to be repeated as any residual eggs will hatch and new larvae emerge. If this is not possible, a soil drench of B. thuringiensis can eliminate fungus gnats. This product is labelled specifically for fungus gnats and is not the same as B. thuringiensis caterpillar killer.
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