Fungus Gnats (?) in my gardens outside - Ask Extension
For the past few years, I have used mineral tubs and a water trough for a few vegetables, herbs and some flowers. I have lots of little white-ish bug...
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Fungus Gnats (?) in my gardens outside #867746
Asked May 09, 2024, 1:22 PM EDT
For the past few years, I have used mineral tubs and a water trough for a few vegetables, herbs and some flowers. I have lots of little white-ish bugs flying above the soil in all of these containers. Might those be fungus gnats? Whether yes or no, how can I get rid of them?
FYI, as I think about it, I had some in there last year that I noticed well into the growing season. I didn't do anything about them then, and I am wondering if that may have been a contributing factor to some vegetables not doing very well.
Thank you very much.
Hubbard County Minnesota
Expert Response
Fungus gnats or white flies can have a negative impact on yield. Fungus gnats can be controlled with a organic pesticide called BT and by letting the soil dry out slightly between waterings.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/insects/whitefly-control.htm
https://www.gardendesign.com/how-to/fungus-gnats.html
It is also possible the brutally hot summer caused reduced productivity.
https://extension.sdstate.edu/heat-causes-problems-garden-produce#:~:text=High%20temperatures%20can%20also%20affect,temperatures%20over%2095%20degrees%20Fahrenheit.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/insects/whitefly-control.htm
https://www.gardendesign.com/how-to/fungus-gnats.html
It is also possible the brutally hot summer caused reduced productivity.
https://extension.sdstate.edu/heat-causes-problems-garden-produce#:~:text=High%20temperatures%20can%20also%20affect,temperatures%20over%2095%20degrees%20Fahrenheit.
