Knowledgebase
how to get rid of fly infestation #679160
Asked January 15, 2021, 4:00 PM EST
Anne Arundel County Maryland
Expert Response
The photo of the insect is not in focus and we cannot accurately id it. However the insect does look like a type of fly or gnat. Based on your description there are insects that live in the soil media such as fungus gnats.
The larvae breed in moist soil, primarily in potted plants containing soil rich in organic matter. Larvae feed on fungi in the moist soil. Overwatering contributes to the growth of the fungi on which the larvae feed.
If the insects are coming from the plants, the soil media is staying too moist. Let the top several inches dry out. When the soil dries, the larvae will die. See our page on fungus gnats https://extension.umd.edu/hgic/topics/fungus-gnats-indoor-plants
The above flying insect does not make webs. If you are noticing webbing, you may be dealing with spider mites, a sucking insect. They suck chlorophyll from the leaves that results in fine white spots on the leaves, yellowing, leaf drop, and browning. If you notice this, periodically wash down the plants with a strong spray of water and get good coverage of the lower leaf surfaces. Here is more on spider mites including photos. If this is not what you are noticing, you can send us more photos. https://extension.umd.edu/hgic/topics/spider-mites-indoor-plants
Marian