Have you ever noticed little insects in your soil around plants in your garden or growing area? These are most likely fungus gnats and they are difficult to deal with if you don't act fast to get rid of them.
Fungus gnats are small, winged insects that are no longer than 1-4 of a millimeters in length. The adults lay their larvae in the soil around plants. When they hatch the larvae feed on the fungi in the soil but the roots get caught in the crossfire.
The problem with getting rid of these pests are that they hardy creatures, they are resistant to cold and hot temperatures and can usually survive when sprayed with a range of pesticides. If you over water your plants it can attract these insects because the fungi spore start colonizing your soil so try to minimize your watering times.
Diatomaceous earth is a fine powder made of diatoms, a fossilized form of algae with silicone dioxide shells. The powder works by absorbing the wax off the shell of any insect that it may come in contact with. With in a few days the insects die from lack of water. Diatomacous earth is good for getting rid of pretty much any insect even works on cockroaches. Be warned that this stuff will kill beneficial insects such as spiders, ladybugs and pray mantises.
You can buy this stuff easily on eBay for a good deal. Remember to get the food grade version only.
The best way I have discovered to apply is to evenly sprinkle food grade diatomacous earth on top of dry soil. When applying remember to wear a mask so you don't breathe any of the dust in because it will irritate for damage your respiratory system in large quantities. On the plus side it helps the plant by increasing its silica levels.
Besides from being used as an insecticide, diatomaceous is also used in dynamite to make nitroglycerin more stable to transport and is a good digestive detox.
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