As annoying as fungus gnats may be. Chemistry is never the right way to rid a plant of pests. Fortunately, there are many organic home remedies such as neem oil. You can read how to treat your plant with it and what effect you can expect on this page.
How does neem oil help against fungus gnats?
Neem oil is an effective remedy against fungus gnats because it influences their hormonal balance and prevents chitin formation. Mix 1ml of neem oil with 1 liter of water and a splash of dish soap and spray or water the plant. Yellow stickers as an additional measure help to contain flying fungus gnats.
How neem oil works
Neem oil contains the ingredient azadirachtin. When the fungus gnats ingest this substance, it changes the hormonal balance so that the metabolism no longer produces chitin. Chitin is an important substance for every living being, without which numerous metabolic processes are not possible. As a result, neem oil acts like a natural poison in the fight against fungus gnats. However, it does not harm the plant itself. There is no danger to you either if you come into contact with the product.
Application
- Mix 1ml neem oil with one liter of water.
- Add a splash of detergent (acts as an emulsifier for better binding).
- Pour the solution into a spray bottle.
- Shake vigorously before use.
- Spray on the plant (especially on the undersides of the leaves).
Tip
You can either spray the neem oil solution onto the affected plant (be sure to take into account the undersides of the leaves) or add the essence to the irrigation water. The latter is even more effective because the fungus gnat larvae usually reside in the plant substrate.
Benefits of Neem Oil Treatment
- very effective
- can also be used preventatively
- also helps against other pests such as spider mites
- does not harm the environment, pets or yourself
Note: Unfortunately, by spraying or watering the plant with neem oil, you only kill the larvae living in the soil. If you do not take any further action, you will have to be patient until the flying fungus gnats die naturally. Only then will the infestation disappear completely. However, it cannot be ruled out that new fungus gnats will find their way through the open window. It is therefore advisable to also hang up yellow stickers. You can find more home remedies for fungus gnats here.
