Why does your Aloe polyphylla have tiny black flies? Diagnose the cause and fix it with our step-by-step guide.
The larvae of these flies live in the organic matter of the soil and feed on decaying plant roots or fungal mycelium. In Aloe polyphylla, which requires very specific drainage, high moisture levels often trigger outbreaks that can eventually damage the sensitive spiral root system.
If the potting medium is overly saturated or contains heavy organic compost, these flies may emerge to lay eggs in the moist crevices of the spiral rosette. This often indicates that the substrate is staying wet for too long, risking crown rot.
These flies are attracted to fermenting organic matter or overripe nectar/sap residues on the succulent's leaves. While they don't feed on the plant directly, their presence indicates an issue with decaying organic material in the top layer of the soil.
Your plant might also be experiencing one of these issues:
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