Dryer Sheets vs. Fungus Gnats

Last year I did a post about fungus gnats that I am reminded of as I came across this research reported by HortScience and mentioned on Enjoy Gardening's newsletter.    Fungus gnats are those miniscule black winged bugs that resemble fruit flies.  They inhabit soil, especially moist soil wherein they lay their eggs.  It is not uncommon to find them in the soil of houseplants during winter.

According to the researchers at Kansas State University, Bounce dryer sheets repel fungus gnats!  The researchers tested and were able to prove the repellency factor of the dryer sheets.  It is believed the chemical linalool, which is used in perfumed products with a floral scent, including dryer sheets, may be at least partially responsible for this effect.

So next time you find those pesky little bugs flying about, try a Bounce dryer sheet placed strategically.  Be the researcher and see if there is merit to this.  Otherwise, read my article for ways to get rid of them.