Expert: Darlene K. Kittle - 5/21/2008

Question
My lucky bamboo plant recently has become overrun with gnats.  I've read the q&a's about the fungus gnats, but they say to let the plant dry out a bit, which I don't think is an option with the bamboo.  It is planted in soil in a small pot on my kitchen counter, and producing more and more gnats everyday.  Help!

Answer
Lindsey,

Carefully remove the lucky bamboo from the pot and inspect the roots. I am afraid you will find the roots are rotting. That is usually what attracts the fungus gnats. You must cut away the rotten roots and let the cuts heal for a few days if the rotting is extensive. The foliage may dry out and die off but if the cane is healthy it will put out new foliage as soon as you repot it. When lucky bamboo is planted in soil you should not keep it constantly wet the roots need a breathing period the same as any other plant. The only time it should be constantly wet is if it is only in water and not soil. Good luck.

Darlene