How to get rid of gnats outside

"My evenings spent outdoors are being ruined by gnats. How can I get rid of them?"

The best way to get rid of gnats around your outdoor space is to limit or reduce the main thing attracting them nearby - moisture! Gnats outside are one of summer's most frustrating nuisances; they can ruin a nice evening spent on the deck. Most outdoor gnats are drawn to specific conditions, and once you know what's attracting them, you can start making your yard a lot less welcoming.

How to keep gnats away outside

There are different species of gnats, but the following practical changes can make a difference regardless of species:

• Reduce moisture: Avoid overwatering your lawn and garden beds; damp soil is a prime breeding ground for fungus gnats.
• Clear debris: Remove fallen leaves, grass clippings, and rotting fruit promptly; these are food and shelter for larvae.
• Fix leaks: Dripping outdoor faucets or poor drainage create the standing water gnats need to breed.
• Secure trash: Keep bins tightly sealed and clean; exposed organic waste is a major attractant.
• Switch your lighting: Gnats are drawn to bright white lights; low-wattage or warm-toned bulbs attract far fewer insects.
• Use fans outdoors: Gnats are weak fliers; a fan on your patio can be surprisingly effective at keeping them at bay.

For deterring gnats outside proactively, citronella candles can act as a deterrent. Planting lavender, basil, or marigolds around your outdoor space may also help keep them away.

If gnats in your backyard keep coming back despite your best efforts, it's usually a sign of an underlying moisture issue or a breeding site you haven't found yet. Our fly control services cover a wide range of flying insects, including gnats. We can identify what's driving the problem and put a targeted plan in place.