fungus gnat larvae and possibly root aphids are the crawlers. Root aphids look like tiny mites, usually tinted in color. for some reason RA and FG are exploding in population.
there are a couple ways to treat:
-OG BioWar Foliar Pack - I use 1 TBSP/ gal and do a drench x2 a week for 2 weeks, then x1/week from then on. its beneifical microbes that fight most predators and mildew. It might take time to destroy a population, so i suggest to get the infestation on the back leg before using, or else it just takes a bit longer
-Bayer "tree and shrub" or "citrus and vegetable" - this is more of a chemical treatment but does work well. i forget the dilution ratings for applications
-Beneficial Nematodes - Orcon has a great source of these - once again it takes time for this method to cut down the infestation, but they work and i love these little fuckers
-CNS 203 - use as a drench @ 1-2oz/gal - this stuff is different types of oils, more of a holistic way of treating your problem. its smells nice and minty and will kill and repel these predators.
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Neem oil - u can use straight neem or
azamax, however i do not suggest this method. the reason being is because u have to use alot of neem to keep up with the drench dilution chart and neem also will kill all ur beneficials u might have in ur medium. so if u choose to use this method, its best to reapply a beneficial microbe blend ie: og biowar,
great white, orgenism xl, etc... - do this a couple days to a week after ur neem application.
-last but not least, Nicotine. yes this may sound weird, but i know some "old school" farmers that use a nictotine mix to treat all their bug problems, whats crazy is the way they make it... cigarette butts thrown into a bucket a water and left to chill for a couple days.... gross right? well it works. i dont suggest this because cigarettes contain harmful chemicals and carcinogens but i havent ever since a negative a affect from this on a plant... fucking crazy old guys!!!
the best method to treat these fuckers, is preventive maintenence. if u use compost x1/week, it really helps keep everything at bay and they will not take over. i add og biowar to my teas and it works like a charm. Also, u can use a barrier over ur medium to keep those fuckers from getting in. I have been using Growstones - Gnat Nix - this is shredded recycled glass and is a great cover medium, way bettter than
diatomaceous earth. Also get some yellow sticky traps to catch all the flyers in ur room.