What should I do about flies in my house plants?

Answer by  KateEidson (33)

If you are talking about house flies, stop using fish emulsion fertilizer, the rank aroma draws them. If you are talking about white flies use a mixture of 1 teaspoon liqid Ivory dish soap to 1 quart water or 3 Tablespoons per gallon(Home made insecticidal soap) and spray daily until fly activity ceases.

Answer by  tsuerob (175)

Sounds like you need to completely dry out the soil since the flys lay their eggs in the decaying organic matter. You can water the plant just enough to keep it alive but do this for 2 to 4 weeks to get rid of the adults and the eggs. Remove any leaves lying around.

Answer by  jeannie (38)

These flies are gnats that live in the soil. They feed on dead organic material in the potting mix. These gnats are very annoying and will spread to other potted plants. The only way that I know how to rid the plant of these pests is to take the plant outside and remove the soil and repot.

Answer by  SallyJ (1010)

The flies could be fungus gnats. Fungus gnats like wet soil, so to get rid of them you will need to water your plants less. Remove dead leaves and other organic matter from around the plant. A layer of clean sand on top of the soil might help.

Answer by  Colemanbunny (231)

First, I would try placing lavender near your plants. Flies hate the smell of lavender. This is available as potpourri in many craft stores. Second, I would try placing a small cup of juice mixed with dish soap near the plants. The juice attracts the flies and the dish soap gets on them and makes it impossible to fly.