If you’ve noticed small flying insects around your home or office, the source might not be leftover food, but rather houseplants. According to Kansas State University horticulture expert Cynthia Domenghini, fungus gnats are common pests that often infest indoor plants.

To control these pests, Domenghini recommends the following tips:

• Water houseplants only when necessary to avoid oversaturating the soil and attracting fungus gnats.
• Empty any standing water from saucers beneath plants to prevent breeding grounds.
• If fungus gnats are already present, allow the soil to dry out at least through the top three inches.
• For severe infestations, repot the plant with fresh, soilless media, removing as much old soil as possible to eliminate gnat eggs and larvae.

Another troublesome insect to watch for is the scale insect, which affects trees and shrubs. These pests feed on sap, causing significant damage to plants, including ornamentals. Domenghini advises checking for scale insects now, as early detection is crucial for preventing damage.

Scale insects often have round or oval, shell-like coverings that blend in with bark. For control, Domenghini suggests using dormant oil when the plant is dormant and temperatures are above 40°F, as it is effective against various life stages of scale insects, less harmful to beneficial insects, and safer than chemical treatments.