Knowledgebase

small insects in my lemon tree soil #923397

Asked January 07, 2026, 11:19 AM EST

I have a Myers Lemon tree that I bring inside for winter. I see small insects flitting around its soil Should I spray the soil with soapy water? I tried to send a clip of the insects flitting around but couldn't attach it. Should I get someone to help me put it in as a gif? I brought the tree in on Nov 17th. I have been using grow lights to the side, and just today put them overhead. I know I need a heater, because the temp stays around the mid-60's F. Any advice is appreciated. Thanks so much! Penny

Baltimore City County Maryland

Expert Response

Hi Penny, 

It sounds like you have some fungus gnats, which are very common in house plants and potted plants. You can view the link for some details, but try drying the soil out some. You can also try a little light soapy water as well. (Typically, we don't recommend home remedies that are not science-based, but this is similar to what is found in products.) The link lists trying Bt as well. You can also re-pot, but since it's rather large, you can just remove the top few inches of soil, since that is where they live and lay eggs etc., and replace that soil. 

The tree looks great otherwise, and unfortunately, our system won't accept anything but photos. 

Here is our indoor citrus plant page as well: Dwarf Citrus Plants

Let us know if you have further questions.

Emily

Answered by the Home and Garden Information Center (HGIC), University of Maryland Extension. For timely gardening information and tips, subscribe to our Maryland Grows blog and quarterly newsletter. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Replied January 09, 2026, 1:21 PM EST

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