Why does your Aloe maculata have tiny black flies? Diagnose the cause and fix it with our step-by-step guide.
The most likely culprit, these flies breed in the moist organic matter of the potting soil. Their larvae feed on decaying roots and can indirectly damage the Aloe maculata by causing root rot in overly damp environments.
The presence of flies often indicates an abundance of decaying organic matter or fungi in the substrate. For Aloe maculata, this usually suggests the soil is staying too wet for too long, creating a breeding ground for larvae.
If you use organic fertilizers or have overripe fruit nearby, these flies may be attracted to the plant. While they do not feed on the Aloe maculata itself, their presence signals an environment with high fermentation/decay.
Your plant might also be experiencing one of these issues: