Why does your Adiantum pedatum have tiny black flies? Diagnose the cause and fix it with our step-by-step guide.
Pet FriendlyThe presence of tiny black flies in the soil is most often caused by fungus gnats, whose larvae feed on organic matter and fungal mycelium in damp substrate. For a moisture-loving fern like Adiantum pedatum, the frequent watering required can create the perfect breeding ground in the top layer of soil.
While not the direct cause of the flies, excessive moisture prevents the soil from drying out, which promotes the fungal growth that attracts fungus gnats. This environment can also lead to rhizome rot in Northern Maidenhair Ferns.
High amounts of decomposing peat or compost in the potting mix provide a food source for fly larvae. As this organic matter breaks down, it releases gases and nutrients that sustain much larger populations of small flies.
Your plant might also be experiencing one of these issues:
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