Why are there insects on my Zanzibar Gem?

[adamlin]

Hi All,

Can someone please advise what is happening with the indoor plant?

Basically, I just replace the old soil with the premium potting mix and follow the instructions on the tag but now notice that quite a lot of insects around.

Any part went wrong?

Regards

[nparrella95]

Hello,

By the looks of it, these look like Fungus gnats. They normally appear when plant soil is too moist or has been overwatered. 

A few solutions here may fix the issue.

1. Monitor the watering to the plant, especially as a Zanzibar Gem is very hardy and does not need watering often. The tag should mention how much to water so stick to that as needed. 

2. Ensure the soil allows for appropriate draining of water and is not too compact. You would want the soil to allow for natural evaporation, and that the plant is getting enough sun.

3.  I have used this before and works great. Gnat barrier product from yates. Just spread on the top of the plant and they should disappear over time.

https://www.bunnings.com.au/yates-4-5l-gnat-barrier_p0170990 

I hope this helps  

[Jason]

Hi @adamlin,

I think @nparrella95 has nailed it. You will get further information from this helpful article from @Adam_W: How to get rid of flying bugs on indoor plants.

Jason

[EricL]

Hello @adamlin

It's great that you've received excellent advice from @nparrella95. Just to add to the suggestions made, I recommend putting in some The Buzz Mini Insect Indoor Pot Traps - 5 Pack. These traps have been designed to last for an extended period so once you've removed the infestation in one plant, the trap can be transferred to the next one.

If you need further assistance, please let us know.

Eric

[mich1972]

@nparrella95  100% absolutely agree with you on that !!! 😃

[adamlin]

Thank you so much 😀👍

[adamlin]

Thanks Eric...I will try my best to keep it alive🙂