Black Flies In Pot Plant Compost.
Question
I have several houseplants which appear to have small black flies in the compost.
Answer
These unsightly flies are more of a nuisance than a pest.
Their larvae resemble very small white maggots with black heads which,when watered, surface.They feed on decaying organic matter,it can be a sign that you have been slightly over zealous with your watering can and your plant’s roots are rooting in its pot.
If not checked the gnats can move onto uncontaminated plants and seedlings causing further problems.
The adults can be caught using sticky yellow traps hung around infested areas. The adults can also be treated with various insecticides, but the most effective is Bio Provado Bug Free.This can be watered onto the surface of the soil.Washing through the insecticide kills adults and larvae alike and once applied should give up to a month’s protection against Sciarid Fly and other greenhouse pests.
Once clear remember to water your plants from underneath rather than the surface this will also help keep it at bay.
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