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Fungus Gnats

Fungus Gnats

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Fungus gnats are small, mosquito-like flies that can be found buzzing around cannabis plants, particularly around the soil. They are often a result of overwatering, as their larvae thrive in wet soil. These tiny pests can cause damage to the roots of cannabis plants, leading to slowed growth and even plant death, especially in young seedlings. Fungus gnats are dark brown or black in color and measure about 2 mm in length.

Cause of Issue
◉ Fungus gnats are attracted to cannabis plants when the soil is consistently overwatered, providing a moist environment for their larvae to thrive. Overwatering can lead to the growth of fungus and decaying organic matter in the top layer of soil, which serves as a food source for the larvae. The presence of fungus gnats indicates excessive moisture and the presence of decayed matter in the soil.
Symptoms
◉ Tiny flying black bugs around the plants and crawling on the soil. ◉ Damaged leaves, including yellowing, spots, curling, and slowed growth. ◉ Weak seedlings or damping off, causing wilting and possible death. ◉ Nutrient deficiencies in leaves unrelated to pH or nutrient problems. ◉ Reduced yields, especially if the infestation occurs during the flowering stage.
Corrective Actions
◉ Let the topsoil dry out between waterings, as fungus gnats thrive in wet conditions. Avoid overwatering your cannabis plants and ensure the top inch of soil is dry before watering again. ◉ Use yellow sticky cards placed near the plants to catch and reduce the number of adult fungus gnats. ◉ Apply a fungus gnat-killing product, such as a wide-spectrum insect killer or a solution containing BT (Bacillus thuringiensis) like crushed mosquito bits mixed with water. Follow the instructions for application. ◉ Sprinkle food-grade diatomaceous earth around the grow room and on the topsoil. This harmless white powder is sharp at a microscopic level and effectively kills gnats. ◉ Improve airflow by using a fan to blow air over the top of the soil, helping to dry out the soil surface and prevent the gnats from flying and laying eggs. ◉ Avoid overwatering and maintain proper watering practices to prevent future infestations. ◉ In severe cases, consider using alternative treatments like Essentria IC3 Insecticide or other biological controls such as pathogenic nematodes or predatory mites. ◉ Keep the yellow sticky cards in place until the fungus gnats are completely eradicated, as they help monitor the effectiveness of your control methods. ◉ Remember, prevention is key. Clean your growing area thoroughly before the next cycle, ensure soil is not overly wet, and be cautious when introducing new plants or clones to your grow area to avoid bringing in fungus gnats.
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