How to identify gnats
- Fungus gnat: tiny dark insect that hovers around houseplant soil
- Fruit fly: tan, red-eyed, near ripe or fermenting produce
- Drain fly: fuzzy, moth-like, near drains (often confused with gnats)
Signs of an infestation
- Tiny flies hovering above potting soil
- Larvae in the top inch of houseplant soil
- Sudden surge after overwatering or after returning from vacation
Why gnats thrive in the SFV
SFV houseplant collections and indoor herb gardens give fungus gnats year-round breeding conditions. Sealed apartments without strong airflow accelerate population growth.
The Evictr treatment process
- 1Source identification — fungus gnat vs. fruit fly vs. drain fly
- 2Top-dressing soil with horticultural sand to block larvae emergence
- 3Soil-drench with appropriate biological control (Bti) for fungus gnats
- 4Drain treatment for drain fly populations
- 5Sticky monitor placement to confirm elimination
Prevention tips
- Let houseplant soil dry between waterings
- Bottom-water plants instead of top-watering
- Store produce in the refrigerator or sealed containers
- Take kitchen trash out daily during warm months
Frequently asked questions
Are gnats harmful?
Most gnat species are not dangerous to humans. Fungus gnat larvae can damage seedlings and the roots of young houseplants. The bigger issue is the persistent nuisance.
Why do gnats keep coming back?
Because the source isn't gone. Spraying adults doesn't matter if the soil, drain, or produce that's breeding them stays in place. Identification is the first and most important step.
Gnats control across the San Fernando Valley
Evictr provides gnats treatment to homes and small commercial properties across the SFV, including:
North HollywoodSherman OaksStudio CityVan NuysEncinoTarzanaWoodland HillsResedaNorthridgeGranada HillsBurbankValley Village
See all service areas