How to Get Rid of House Plant Flies

The most common type of flies that infest house plants are fungus gnats (Bradysia spp). These tiny dark flies breed in soil, especially if it is rich in organic matter and is frequently overwatered. Fungus gnat flies generally don't harm the plants, but can become a nuisance. Fortunately, changing some of the ways in which you care for your plants, along with an insecticide, should eliminate your house plant flies within a month.

Allow the soil to dry out between waterings. This will make conditions less conducive for flies to breed.

Clean up your house plants. Remove any organic mulch, which is decomposing in your soil. Also prune or pick up dead leaves and flowers before or after they drop. This will help reduce the fungi in which flies breed.

Spray an insecticide that contains pyrethrin or resmethrin and usually comes in an aerosol can in the soil. Repeat every two to three days for three to four weeks. Always follow the application directions on the label.

Rid Of Fruit Flies On My Aloe Plant

Remove all potential fruit fly breeding areas and attractants in your kitchen, or wash them with warm, soapy water made with soap or a mild detergent. Fruit flies can be drawn to plants such as aloe, but a problem with them often starts near food-storage and disposal areas. Examine trashcans, pantry shelves and other areas that may harbor rotting food remnants. Check your recycling bin, too. Eliminate other sources of standing water in your home as well. Fill a white plate with water and a few drops of lemon-scented dish soap. Place the plate near the aloe plant. The plate's color and the lemon scent lure fruit flies, which drown in the soapy water. This method is unnecessary if you are willing to allow the lemon-scented dish soap trap and time to kill those remaining fruit fly adults.