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How to Get Rid of Mosquito Larvae in Fiddle Leaf Plant Water

Updated: February 5, 2023

Fiddle Leaf Plants are a popular indoor plant choice because of their large, lush green leaves that add a natural touch to any space. However, these plants require regular watering, and if you’re not careful, stagnant water can attract mosquitoes and their larvae. In this article, we’ll walk you through the steps to get rid of mosquito larvae in your Fiddle Leaf Plant water.

Step 1: Identify Mosquito Larvae

Mosquito larvae are small, worm-like creatures that live in stagnant water. They may be difficult to spot with the naked eye, but you can identify them by their movement – they wiggle around in the water. If you notice any movement in your Fiddle Leaf Plant’s water, it’s likely that you have mosquito larvae.

Step 2: Change the Water

The first step to getting rid of mosquito larvae is to change the water in your Fiddle Leaf Plant’s container. Remove all of the water from the container and rinse it out thoroughly with clean water. Make sure there are no traces of old water left behind.

Step 3: Clean the Container

After changing the water, clean the container thoroughly with soap and hot water. This will ensure that any remaining mosquito eggs or larvae are eliminated.

Step 4: Add Mosquito Dunks

One effective way to prevent mosquito larvae from returning is by using mosquito dunks. Mosquito dunks are small, donut-shaped tablets that contain a bacteria called Bacillus thuringiensis israelensis (BTI), which kills mosquito larvae but is harmless to humans and pets. Simply drop one or two dunks into your Fiddle Leaf Plant’s water, and they will release BTI continuously for up to 30 days.

Step 5: Keep the Water Moving

Mosquitoes prefer stagnant water for breeding, so keeping the water in your Fiddle Leaf Plant container moving can help deter them. You can do this by using a small water pump or by simply stirring the water regularly.

Step 6: Keep the Area Clean

Mosquitoes are attracted to dirty and cluttered spaces, so keeping the area around your Fiddle Leaf Plant clean can also help prevent them from breeding. Make sure to clean up any debris or fallen leaves, and avoid overcrowding the plant with other objects.

By following these steps, you can effectively get rid of mosquito larvae in your Fiddle Leaf Plant’s water and keep them from returning.

FAQ

Why are mosquitoes attracted to stagnant water?

Mosquitoes lay their eggs in stagnant water because it provides a suitable environment for larvae to develop. The larvae require stagnant water to survive, as they breathe air from the surface of the water.

Are mosquito dunks safe for plants?

Yes, mosquito dunks are safe for plants. They contain a bacteria that only affects mosquito larvae and is harmless to other living organisms.

How often should I change the water in my Fiddle Leaf Plant container?

It’s recommended to change the water in your Fiddle Leaf Plant container every 1-2 weeks to prevent the buildup of bacteria and other organisms that can harm the plant.