Preventative treatments for control of fungus gnats and shore flies

Abstract

Preventative treatments for control of fungus gnats (Bradysia sp nr paupera Diptera Sciaridae) and shore flies (Scatella tonnoiri Hendel Diptera Ephydridae) were carried out by drenching potted tobacco plants with diflubenzuron and Bacillus thuringiensis var israelensis (Bti) The treatments were applied at different rates and times and compared with the use of sand and sawdust toppings to cover the potting mix Diflubenzuron treatments applied at three and nine weekly intervals and Bti applied at weekly intervals gave the lowest numbers of fungus gnats The sand topping for the control of shore flies gave significantly better results than the untreated control