How to Control Biting Gnats

Gnats can ruin a barbecue.

Gnats are an annoyance that can be difficult to avoid or eliminate. There are three main types of gnats: fungus gnats, midge gnats and black gnats. Black gnats are more than just bothersome; they are also a risk to your health. Black gnats bite and spread serious diseases. Outside, keeping the gnats away can be as simple as applying a lotion or lighting a candle. Once you see gnats in your house, it typically means that they have laid eggs in your house and removal may take some patience.

Instructions

1. Apply a lotion or spray repellent containing DEET or citronella if you plan to be in a damp outdoor area for a long period of time. Reapply the repellent every 2 to 3 hours.

2. Spray your clothes with a permethrin spray to stave off gnats if you plan to hike near a stream or river. Avoid spraying the permethrin on your skin.

3. Light a citronella candle outside if you are planning a barbecue. The scent of citronella will please guests and keep gnats away from any fruits or vegetables you have sitting on the table.

4. Cover up all fruit sitting in your house with a plastic bag. The fruit juices attract gnats and encourage them to lay eggs.

5. Make a conscious effort not to overwater your indoor plants. Overwatering causes fungus to grow on and around the plant. Fungus attracts gnats because they feed off of it.

6. Apply a powder gnat-repellent throughout your house. You will need approximately 1 pound of repellent for every 600 square feet of living space. Sprinkle the powder around all of the baseboards in your home.

References

• Bugspray.com: Gnat Repellent