Question
I recently bought Miracle Grow African Violet potting soil and as I opened the bag out flew little black insects! They are very annoying and buzz my face and I believe they are killing my violets. What can I do to get rid of these black flying pests? This never used to happen before with this soil. It is my opinion the are selling land fill soil at premium prices.

Answer
Kathleen
Apparently the bag got contaminated...Throw out any remaining potting soil...They are probably gnats...get to a local garden center (not chain store) and buy some safer soap pesticide...Ask them what they recommend...
And make sure you water properly...Wet soils attract gnats...
Water by weight. Water and let the plant sit for a few minutes. Pick up or lean the pot. It should feel heavy. Don't water again until it feels considerably lighter in weight. Indoors check it every 3-10 days. Watering frequency depends on many factors(type of plant, light exposure, temps, humidity, etc.). Violets are best watered by letting them sit in a saucer to water from underneath...Violets rot easy...

Most indoor tropical plants require you to add fertilize on a weekly to monthly basis during the growing season.
Hope this helps,
Rick