Does My Garden Attract Gnats in Simpsonville?

Green thumbs everywhere are all too familiar with gnats. Not to fear – Mosquito Squad Plus is here!

What Kind of Gnats Are In My Garden?

There is a wide variety of tiny flying insects that are commonly called gnats, but if you’re dealing with them in your garden, they’re most likely to be fungus gnats. Here in South Carolina, they are usually part of the species known as dark-winged fungus gnats.

As their name suggests, these gnats have dark wings as well as black bodies that sometimes may have orange markings. They’re usually no bigger than a quarter of an inch at the largest. All adults of this species prefer to make their homes around the bases of trees, in garden beds, or inside potted plants, and this is also where the females lay eggs. In her 7-10 days of life, she will lay up to 200 eggs, and these will hatch within 3-6 days of being laid. That incredibly fast life cycle is part of why so many people call Mosquito Squad Plus for our Simpsonville, SC gnat control solutions!

Why Are There So Many Gnats in My Garden?

The nutrient-rich soil that you so lovingly provide for your plants is the same soil that attracts fungus gnats, especially when the soil stays damp for too long. This doesn’t mean you should no longer water your plants, but it does mean it’s a good idea to avoid overwatering and drainage issues, and not to garden in places with heavy shade and compacted soil.

Water isn’t the only issue. Seasoned green thumbs know that plants don’t just need sunlight and water – they also need vitamins and nutrients. Many gardeners tend to keep mulch, fertilizer, and compost around for that very reason. However, the organic matter that makes this soil so important for plants also encourages the growth of fungi, which attracts even more fungus gnats.

The time of year is also a factor in the uptick in gnat populations. During the warm humidity of the spring and summer, when rainfall and muggy weather are frequent events, soil is often damp for longer. Fungus gnats won’t hesitate to make their home in that damp soil, and they’ll grow quickly from there.

How Do I Get Gnats Out of My Garden?

If you’ve read this far, you’ve learned that gardens naturally offer many of the things gnats like most: moisture, shade, soil, and organic material. Fortunately, there are a few things you can take on to help prevent gnats from taking over your garden.

• Let the top layer of soil dry before watering again.
• Ensure proper drainage anywhere plants grow.
• Avoid giving your plants too much water.
• Don’t let your compost pile get out of control, and keep it away from high-traffic areas.
• Consider using a fan when you’re outside gardening (or doing anything, really) because the moving air helps to keep flies away.

Of course, even as helpful as these steps can be, they’re not the simplest or most effective way to deal with gnats. Mosquito Squad Plus offers gnat control in Simpsonville, SC, that can help you manage gnats head-on!

How Does Mosquito Squad Plus Help with Simpsonville, SC Gnat Control?

We’ve been in the bug business for years, and during that time, we’ve worked hard to make sure our treatments are high-quality, effective, and affordable. That includes our great gnat control treatments available in Simpsonville, SC. Our professionals understand what gnats are looking for and what will get them to hit the road. We apply treatments strategically to help you get the most bang for your buck. Once your property has been treated, you’ll enjoy up to 21 days of protection.

If gnats are taking over your garden, Mosquito Squad Plus is ready to help. Call (864) 362-2013 today to schedule your service or request your quote online.