But, we understand that large numbers of these pests make lounging outdoors unenjoyable.
Plus, some types can pose a threat to your garden plants.
Gnats thrive in temperatures between 75 and 80F and populations often visibly increase in extended rainy periods.
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However, you might at least control their populations by eliminating some of the most obvious sources.
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Remove Water Sources
Eliminating the sources that attract gnats is your first line of defense.
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It may require more than one measure to get rid of gnats.
Be mindful to fix any outdoor plumbing or irrigation system leaks, too.
Use Biological Control
An effective way to control gnats is to addbeneficial nematodesto the soil.
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This is sold in powder form and added with water to the soil.
These methods are meant to be used in a limited and confined indoor space.
Types of Gnats
Gnat is the common name for several small, winged insects with long legs.
They mate in swarms and multiply rapidly and in large numbers, laying their eggs on land or water.
Look for the adults on soil, plants, or in flight.
Yellow sticky traps are useful for monitoring population numbers.
Closely inspect every potted plant before bringing it into your home.
If a plant is visibly infested, its better to get rid of it.
For that reason, dryer sheets should not be used outdoors.
Bounce Fabric Softener Dryer Sheets Repel Fungus Gnat, Bradysia sp.
coprophila (Diptera: Sciaridae), Adults.
American Society for Horticultural Science.
