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House Plants & Gnats

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From: Theresa Amie
City:
Rochester, NY
Hello; Years ago a friend worked with both indoor and outdoor plants I recall her advising that when plants are effected by gnats to add 1-tsp. of bleach to one gallon of water, shake well and use that to water plants a couple of times - until infestation is died off.

I've used this method and it worked... but it's been many years and don't want to kill my plants either.

What are your thoughts...?

Thank you,

Theresa

 
Extension Message
From: Richard Hentschel
Extension Educator, Horticulture
DuPage/Kane/Kendall Unit
hentsche@illinois.edu
Fungus gnats prefer cool moist locations with a food source (organic matter in potted plants). Your friend shared one of many homemade remedies related to insect or weed control. These remedies are rarely, if ever researched or proven through the scientific process. The University does not support such treatments as bleach is not legally labeled for insect control or any of the many homemade remedies available on social media. The liabilities are stagering. There are labeled insecticides that can be used as a soil drench. Check you favorite garden center and look for houseplant products.

 
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