Aloe dichotoma Tiny Black Flies - Causes & Fixes

Jump to cause: Fungus Gnats (Sciarid Flies) Drainage Issues leading to Root Rot Saprophytic Breakdown of Organic Matter

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Fungus Gnats (Sciarid Flies)

The larvae of these flies thrive in the moist, organic-rich substrate that Aloe dichotoma requires for nutrients but hates for moisture. The adults emerge to lay eggs in the top layer of soil, where larvae feed on organic matter and fine root hairs.

Very Common

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How to confirm: Set a yellow sticky trap near the base of the plant to confirm the presence of flying adults.

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1 Deploy yellow sticky traps to capture the adult flying gnats and break the reproductive cycle.

Super Ninja Fungus Gnat Traps - 30 Pack

30 pcs

$7

In Stock

2 Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings to kill the larvae, as they require moist organic matter to survive.

GROWIT Analog Soil Moisture Meter

Water Meters

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3 Top-dress the soil with a layer of horticultural perlite or coarse sand to create a dry barrier that prevents adults from laying eggs.

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Drainage Issues leading to Root Rot

While not the flies themselves, chronic overwatering creates the anaerobic, damp environment that attracts fungus gnats and can lead to soft, decaying tissue in the succulent's stem. This rot provides a perfect breeding ground for fly larvae.

Common

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How to confirm: Gently squeeze the base of the main stem to check if it feels soft or hollow rather than firm.

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1 Immediately reduce watering frequency and allow the soil to dry out completely to disrupt the fungus gnat breeding cycle and stop root decay.

GROWIT Soil Moisture Meter SMM-V3

Water Meters

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2 Repot the Aloe dichotoma in a well-draining succulent mix, incorporating perlite to improve aeration and prevent future anaerobic conditions.

3 Apply a biological control like Neem Oil or a targeted insecticide to eliminate the adult flies and larvae.

Bonide Captain Jack's Neem Oil 32 oz

0.9 L • 1 pcs • Organic

$10

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Saprophytic Breakdown of Organic Matter

If there is decomposing leaf litter or old potting soil within the Aloe's pot, it acts as a food source for flies. The breakdown of this material releases CO2 and moisture, attracting various small dipterans.

Common

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How to confirm: Inspect the top layer of the soil for any decaying organic debris or matted, wet peat.

build How to fix it

shopping_cart Recommended Products

1 Remove all decomposing organic matter, such as old leaf litter or decaying debris, from the surface of the soil to eliminate the flies' food source.

2 Apply yellow sticky traps near the base of the plant to capture and reduce the adult fly population.

Super Ninja Fungus Gnat Traps - 30 Pack

30 pcs

$7

In Stock

3 Repot the Aloe in fresh, well-draining substrate and ensure the new medium is free of decaying organic material.