How to get rid of flies in potted plants?

Adults are delicate, grayish black, mosquito-like flies (1/8 inch long) with long legs and one pair of clear wings. They are not strong fliers and emerge from potted plants, especially when watering. Larvae or maggots (1/4 inch) have a shiny black head and an elongated, whitish to transparent body. read more

Finding tiny fruit flies, or fungus gnats, loitering just above the surface of potted plant dirt is a common nuisance for indoor gardeners. These pests feed on the decaying organic matter and fungi in potting soil, although they do not cause any damage to plants. read more

Simply hang up a trap near affected plants, or attach it to a bamboo cane inserted into the compost. Keep the trap near soil level, as gnats rarely fly far from the compost. The traps will also capture whitefly, aphids and bluebottles. read more

The most common type of flies that infest house plants are fungus gnats (Bradysia spp). These tiny dark flies breed in soil, especially if it is rich in organic matter and is frequently overwatered. Fungus gnat flies generally don't harm the plants, but can become a nuisance. read more