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Fungus Gnats: Potted Pests

fungus gnats potted pots
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Fungus gnats occasionally become a nuisance indoors when adults emerge in large numbers from potted plants or flower boxes containing damp soil. Adults are attracted to lights and are often first noticed at windows. Fungus gnats are often mistaken for mosquitoes since adults look very similar to an untrained eye.

Fungus gnats are small, dark, short-lived flies whose larvae feed on plant roots or fungi and aid in the decomposition of organic matter. They are quite small, at 1/8 to 1/4 inch and are brown or black with smoky wings, and have long antennae. They are usually found in moist, shaded areas. Indoors, these flies can be found breeding in house plants and this often indicates over watering.

Female fungus gnats place their eggs in soil and larvae burrow in and eat the decaying plant matter or fungi. Pupae, or the resting stage of fungus gnats, occur near the soil surface. This cycle can be year-round within your home.

If you have a fungus gnat problem, contact Parkway Pest Services today, and we will swat them from your home or office!