Fungus Gnats and Chilli Plants

Fungus Gnats: My Arch Nemesis

Living near a brook, farm, or wooded area creates the perfect environment for fungus gnats. These pests thrive in wet soil full of decomposed material, making them a nightmare for chilli growers. 

Why Fungus Gnats Are a Problem 

Fungus gnats are attracted to moist soil and lay their eggs near plant roots. The larvae then feed on the roots, damaging your plants. Once mature, they emerge, crowd windowsills, and breed rapidly, causing a persistent infestation. 

How to Get Rid of Fungus Gnats 

1. Remove Infested Soil:

   • Take the plant out of its pot and wash the roots thoroughly with lukewarm water to remove soil and eggs.

2. Repot Plants:

   • Use fresh compost and clean pots for replanting. Repeat this process for all plants in the affected area.

3. Silver Sand Layer:

   • Apply a 1-inch layer of silver sand on top of the soil to prevent gnats from laying eggs or emerging. This forms a physical barrier that slows reproduction and protects your plants.

4. Insect Zapper:

   • Hang a blue-light insect zapper near the window to attract and eliminate adult gnats at night. 

Prevention 

1. Watering Technique:

   • Avoid top watering, as wet topsoil invites gnats. Instead, water from the bottom to keep the surface dry.

   • Prevent overwatering to ensure the soil doesn’t stay overly moist.

2. Target Eggs with Nematodes

• Within all soil is tiny - micro worms called nematodes, they really are what make soil an eco system, get different ones for different jobs, buy nematodes online, add to water and water the plants as normal, the worms will eat the fungus eggs and stop the adults from forming, usually takes 1-2 days and is my go to solution for all fungus issues
• Can be used as preventive as well combative, if you live in a area prone to this problem a regular cycle of introduction will prevent any issue