How to Treat Indoor Plants for Fruit Flies

Fruit flies can infest waterlogged plants.

Fruit flies are a common household pest that usually swarm around decomposing fruit. Waterlogged houseplants, especially those with damp soil, can also draw fruit flies. There are several methods of cultural control a homeowner can employ before resorting to insecticides. The most important method of fruit fly prevention is to keep the soil dry when possible.

Things You'll Need

• Damp cloth
• Fork
• Sticky traps
• Insecticide

Instructions

1. Dampen a clean cloth and wipe down the leaves of the houseplants. Dust encourages insect infestation.

2. Remove the water-catching tray under the pot and empty it after each watering session. Standing water also encourages insect infestation.

3. Fluff the soil of the houseplants with a small fork, going as deep as you can without disturbing the roots. This will increase air circulation in the soil and decrease the population of fruit flies.

4. Lay sticky traps, which are small cards with a sticky surface, around the plant and at its base in the pot. Change the sticky traps every other day.

5. Set the plants in the sunniest location possible. Fruit flies thrive in damp environments and the sun will help dry out overly moist soil.

6. Apply a gnat-specific or fruit-fly specific insecticide to the plant, according to the package directions, if the other methods do not rid the plant of the infestation. Repeat the application until the flies are gone.

References

• Colorado State University Extension: Flies in the Home
• University of Minnesota: Houseplant Insect Control