I've been struggling with a gnat problem in my houseplants for about a month now. I read that using a 1:4 peroxide to water mixture could help, but I'm confused about how often I should apply it. I've already tried it twice a week for two weeks, but it doesn't seem to work. Should I use it more frequently? Also, should I replace my regular watering with this mix, or should I stick to my usual schedule? Any advice would be appreciated!
3 Answers
So I took the advice and got some sand and neem oil for my plants. I also thought about getting fish tank gravel, but I ended up just getting the sand and oil for now.
I suggest laying a thin layer of fine sand on top of the soil in your pots. It's a great organic method because it prevents gnats from burrowing into the moist dirt to lay their eggs. If you can, try adding some small rocks or fish tank gravel on top as well for even better results. Best of luck with it!
My other plant has pretty loose soil. Should I make it more compact to stop this?
From what I understand, you should use that peroxide mixture instead of your regular watering. If you keep watering normally, it could drown your plants, and gnats love wet soil for laying eggs. I went through a similar issue, and I let my plants dry out a bit, then treated them with water mixed with mosquito bits. If you want to stick with peroxide, maybe try a stronger solution? I also diluted neem oil in water to spray the leaves and topsoil. Just remember to wipe it off if it’s sunny! Sticky traps are a big help too. Stick with this routine for a few weeks and you should see improvements!
I haven't seen many mosquitoes around where I live this season. Do you know if I can order mosquito bits online?
I have a plant from my mom that's covered in small rocks, and that's the only one that hasn't been affected by gnats.