Biology
Gnat eggs hatch in four to six days, where their larvae feed for 12 to 14 days on decaying root debris. Their pupae grow into adults after five days of this feeding process, and then the adults live up to 10 days after that. Their lifecycles are relatively short, but are quickly replenished if warm temperatures are available. Female gnats lay up to 300 eggs per batch, and there are many overlapping generations per year.

Outdoors
If you notice gnat populations declining or disappearing in the fall or winter, then it’s likely that the source is outside. Gnats like landscaped or heavily mulched areas, preferably close to a water spigot. They are more prevalent after a heavy rain or after sprinklers have watered a landscape.

Indoors
If you notice the problem to be consistent regardless of the time of year, then the source is more likely to be indoors, or at least it is associated directly with the structure rather than a landscaped source. Many times, potted plants are the indoor culprits. Check plants to see if their soil is excessively wet, draining any excess water. This is an easy breeding ground for gnats.

Check areas where moisture is commonly found, including kitchens, bathrooms, utility rooms and crawlspaces. Additional places where leaks may occur as a result of storm damage or poor maintenance include roofs. A leak through a break in membrane material can cause the underlying insulation to become moldy, an ideal habitat for fungus gnats. Inspect the roof and ceiling below these areas for signs of leaks, and don’t be surprised if you find the gnat breeding ground.

If you notice gnats in or outside your home in alarming numbers, contact Solidified Pest Control today to exterminate them!