How to Eliminate Gnats

Gnats are aggravating. If you're like me, you have probably wondered "Where do gnats COME from?", because they literally seem to appear out of nowhere. Because they breed so rapidly, it can seem as if they're multiplying as quick as you're killing them. This article was created to help you launch an all-out assault on gnats, and attack potential sources of the problem instead of just treating the symptoms.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Vegetable oil
• Apple cider vinegar

1. Indoor plants can one of the biggest culprits (and breeding grounds) for gnats. Since gnats are attracted to warmth and moisture, it's a good idea not to water your plants too much. When watering your plants, allow the soil to thoroughly dry before watering again.

2. Gnats are known to lay eggs in the soil of indoor potted plants. It may be a good idea to re-pot your plants with new, sterile soil. This can cut off a primary breeding ground for gnats.

3. If you leave produce sitting out in the open air, you're asking for gnats. Make sure to put all un-used produce in the refrigerator, or if you throw it away, make sure to put the produce in a plastic grocery bag and tie it tightly, then put the bag in the trash can.

4. On the "home remedy" side, you can mix a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar into a small bowl of water, and sit the bowl near your potted plants. You can use wine or fruit juice as well. Many a gnat has reportedly met their fate with this concoction.

5. Your drains are also a haven for gnats. Pour some vegetable oil down the drain; this will saturate the gnats, hindering their ability to breed.

Tips & Warnings

• As soon as you see gnats, do what you can to remedy the problem. Although gnats have relatively short lifespans, they can breed like crazy while they're alive.
• Some people suggest pouring bleach down your drains to get rid of gnats. I would caution against it, because bleach has the potential to damage your pipes.

[daconn]

on 12/14/2009 I like the non-toxic remedies.