Why are there insects on my Zanzibar Gem?

adamlin

Hi All,

Can someone please advise what is happening with the indoor plant?

Basically, I just replace the old soil with the premium potting mix and follow the instructions on the tag but now notice that quite a lot of insects around.

Any part went wrong?

Regards

nparrella95

Hello,

By the looks of it, these look like Fungus gnats. They normally appear when plant soil is too moist or has been overwatered. 

A few solutions here may fix the issue.

1. Monitor the watering to the plant, especially as a Zanzibar Gem is very hardy and does not need watering often. The tag should mention how much to water so stick to that as needed. 

2. Ensure the soil allows for appropriate draining of water and is not too compact. You would want the soil to allow for natural evaporation, and that the plant is getting enough sun.

3.  I have used this before and works great. Gnat barrier product from yates. Just spread on the top of the plant and they should disappear over time.

https://www.bunnings.com.au/yates-4-5l-gnat-barrier_p0170990 

I hope this helps 🙂