Fungus Gnats and How to Be Rid of Them

The tiny flies hovering over your pots are harmless, annoying and surprisingly easy to clear. Most of it comes down to paying attention: a plant tells you what it needs well before it is in trouble.

Repot in spring

Roots circling the bottom of the pot or poking out of the drainage hole are the signal. Go up one size only -- a pot far too big holds water the roots cannot reach, and that is how rot begins.

Water deeply, then let it drain

A small splash every day wets the surface and leaves the roots dry. Water until it runs from the drainage hole, let the pot empty fully, and do not leave it standing in a saucer of water.

Have a plant that is puzzling you? Write and tell us about it -- the best questions become the next guide in the care library.