What are Fungus Gnats?

Fungus gnats are tiny, dark-colored flies that are commonly found around houseplants and damp soil. They are often mistaken for fruit flies because of their small size and weak flying patterns, but unlike fruit flies, fungus gnats are attracted to moist soil instead of ripe produce. Adult fungus gnats do not bite or spread disease, but their larvae feed on decaying organic matter and sometimes plant roots, making them a serious concern for gardeners and homeowners who keep indoor plants.

Signs of Fungus Gnat Infestation

You may have fungus gnats if you notice:

• Small black flies hovering around potted plants or soil
• Flies congregating near windows, sinks, or drains
• Larvae in the top layer of moist soil, appearing as thin, worm-like creatures
• Wilting or yellowing plants caused by root damage from larvae
• Flies becoming more active after watering your plants

Why They are a Problem

Fungus gnats are more than just a nuisance. While adult gnats are harmless, their larvae can damage plant roots, leading to stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and in severe cases, plant death. For commercial growers or anyone who relies on healthy indoor plants, a fungus gnat infestation can be costly. Additionally, their constant presence indoors can be frustrating, especially when they gather near windows, lights, or food preparation areas.

Where Do They Come From?

Fungus gnats thrive in moist, organic-rich soil where they can lay eggs. Common sources include:

• Overwatered houseplants
• Soil that remains damp for long periods
• Poorly draining pots or containers
• Compost bins kept indoors
• Damp basements or crawl spaces

They are most often introduced into homes through infested potting soil or plants brought inside. Once inside, they reproduce quickly, with each female laying up to 200 eggs at a time.

How to Get Rid of Fungus Gnats at Home

If you are searching for how to get rid of fungus gnats indoors, here are some effective steps:

• Allow the top layer of soil in potted plants to dry before watering again, as larvae thrive in damp soil
• Use sticky traps near plants to capture adult gnats
• Replace heavily infested soil with fresh, well-draining potting mix
• Water plants from the bottom instead of the top to keep the soil surface dry
• Use a thin layer of sand or gravel on top of the soil to deter adults from laying eggs

These steps can help reduce infestations, but complete elimination may require professional treatment if the problem persists.

Fungus Gnats vs Fruit Flies

Fungus gnats and fruit flies are often confused, but they have key differences:

• Fungus gnats are slender, black or dark gray, and found near soil and plants
• Fruit flies are tan or brown, rounder in shape, and hover near ripe or rotting fruit
• Fungus gnat larvae feed on plant roots, while fruit fly larvae feed on decaying food matter
• Fungus gnats are common in potted plants, while fruit flies are found in kitchens and pantries

How We Can Help

At Go Away Pest & Wildlife Control, we specialize in identifying and eliminating fungus gnat infestations in homes and businesses. Our team inspects the source of the problem, applies safe and effective treatments, and provides long-term prevention strategies to protect your plants and living spaces. With our professional service, you can enjoy healthy plants and a gnat-free home.