Tiny flies eating houseplant

[Booldawg]

I bought an indoor plant a few weeks ago and I notice loads of tiny flies, about the size of midges flying around the plant and chewing the leaves.

I tried spraying the leaves with a solution of washing up liquid and warm water but it hasnt put the flies off!

Whats the remedy for this?

[Palustris]

Sounds like scairid flies or fungus gnats as they are sometimes called. They breed in the soil so you really need to buy a proper systemic insecticide to deal with them. There are some specially made to kill these pests. You need to check that your plant can take the chemical you choose.

[Hawkwalk]

They seldom cause much harm in established plants and damage is mostly from the larvae eating the fine root hairs.

The best control of Sciarid flies is cultural. They will thrive on wet soil so best let the top of the compost dry out and ensure there is no water logging. You can buy an insecticide drench for treating the compost which will also work.

[shylock73]

I purchased a lamp which attracts flies and other flying insects and they get the shock of their lives when they try to get to the light. Most gardening shops sell them. I expect you`ve seen them in some restaurants or fruit shops.