How to Control Gnats
Gnats are small winged flies. They can be biting or non-biting, both are annoying. There is little you can do to eliminate outdoor gnats. To repel them, use bug spray with DEET or wipe skin and clothing with fabric softener dryer sheets and carry them in your pocket or hat. It is possible to control gnats inside the home, however. Indoor gnats can come from plants, cat litter boxes, produce and garbage. Fruit flies, another small fly, can also be controlled using this method. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Select a wide-mouth glass jar. This will allow a broad opening for the gnats to enter and provide for ease of cleaning. If the gnat infestation is severe, use several jars.
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Cover the top of the jar with plastic wrap. Secure the plastic wrap with a rubber band around the top of the jar. Gently poke holes in the top of the plastic wrap using the tip of a pencil.
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Fill the jar 2-inches full with apple cider vinegar. Ordinary apple cider vinegar works fine; do not spend extra money on raw apple cider vinegar.
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Set the jar in the general vicinity of the source of the gnats. Gnats will be attracted to the vinegar, fly through the holes in the plastic wrap, and become stuck in the jar. Allow the jar to remain in place.
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Refill jars as the vinegar becomes saturated with gnats. Also, empty and refill jars every few days to maintain a fresh vinegar scent as needed.
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Eliminate known gnat sources such as houseplants, produce and garbage. Clean and bleach cat boxes to eliminate eggs. Houseplants that are a source of gnats can be repotted but this does not guarantee the elimination of the gnats. Remove as much of the original soil as possible. Clean or replace the pot. The gnats are coming from eggs that have been laid in the soil caused by over-watering. If repotting does not eliminate the source of gnats the plant should be planted outside or disposed of.
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Tips & Warnings
Keep vinegar jars out of the reach of small children and pets.
References
- Photo Credit Hemera Technologies/Photos.com/Getty Images
