How to Get Rid of Flies in House Plants

09/23/25

Written By House Digital

While house plants welcome life, colour and vibrance into your indoor space, they can often bring a ton of uninvited tiny flies, known as fungus gnats. Despite not directly harming your plants, there’s no denying that they’re an irritating and unwelcome presence that takes from the enjoyment of displaying bouquets around the home. So, if you’ve found that tiny black flies have taken up residence in your house plants, Johnsons has plenty of advice to help. We’ve got a selection of solutions which you can choose from or implement several of as you see fit. From removing flies to deterring them entirely, find out exactly how to get rid of flies in house plants today with our helpful guide.

Don’t Water as Often

Fungus gnats are naturally drawn to moist soils, which is why we recommend only watering your plants as and when necessary. When dry, your soil won’t be liveable for flies and gnats, forcing them to leave your plant alone.

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Add a Second Layer of Soil

You can also avoid attracting gnats to your houseplants by introducing thick, dry soil to cover the previously moistened soil. This allows the soil beneath to dry out, creating unlivable conditions for flies and deterring newcomers from settling in.

Make Use of Sticky Traps

Stick traps are an effective way to capture flies and prevent them from laying eggs in your plant. These traps jut out of your soil and attract flies with their bright colours. Whilst not an ideal solution for those who take pride in the presentation of their displays, you’ll be surprised by just how effective they can be.

Use Insecticide

If you’d rather avoid sticky traps but are looking for a direct solution on how to get rid of flies in house plants, you may want to consider insecticides. You can find a suitable houseplant insecticide that you can simply spray on your plants' leaves to kill and deter potential pests.

Remove Contaminated Soil

If you’re already deep into your fungus gnat situation, removing your contaminated soil and starting fresh may be best. The chances are that adult gnats will have already laid their seed deep into your soil, so we’d recommend tackling the problem at the root – literally. Gently remove your houseplant from its pot, replace the soil and replant. From this point on, you have the perfect foundation to follow each of our aforementioned suggestions for an effective attack against flies in your house plants.

Shop Houseplants at Johnsons

Hopefully, by now, you have a better idea of how to get rid of flies in house plants. We understand that gardening is likely a passion of yours, and we aim to make your experience and results as prosperous as possible, so we are keen to help maintain the beauty of your flower plants and house plants as best we can.

Look at our gardening essentials and house plants today, or grow your own from our premium range of flower seeds. If you’re wondering what to do in the garden now, look at Johnsons' gardening advice for even more suggestions on creating your own bright and bountiful blooms.