Aloe squarrosa Tiny Black Flies - Causes & Fixes

Jump to cause: Fungus Gnats Excessive Soil Moisture High Organic Matter in Substrate

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Fungus Gnats

The tiny black flies are likely the adult stage of fungus gnats, which breed in the moist organic matter of the soil. Their larvae feed on fine root hairs, which can damage the succulent's ability to absorb water and nutrients.

Very Common

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How to confirm: Set a yellow sticky trap near the base of the Aloe 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 breeding cycle.

Super Ninja Fungus Gnat Traps - 30 Pack

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2 Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings, as fungus gnats thrive in consistently moist organic matter.

GROWIT Soil Moisture Meter - Blue

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3 Top-dress the soil with a layer of horticultural perlite to create a dry barrier that prevents larvae from reaching the surface.

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Excessive Soil Moisture

Frequent watering or poorly draining soil creates the damp environment required for fungus gnat larvae to thrive. For an Aloe squarrosa, constant wetness also increases the risk of stem rot.

Very Common

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How to confirm: Stick your finger deep into the pot to check if the substrate remains wet long after a watering cycle.

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1 Reduce watering frequency and allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings to disrupt the fungus gnat life cycle and prevent stem rot.

GROWIT Soil Moisture Meter SMM-V3

Water Meters

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2 Apply yellow sticky traps near the soil surface to capture adult flies and prevent further breeding.

Super Ninja Fungus Gnat Traps - 30 Pack

30 pcs

$7

In Stock

3 Repot the Aloe in a well-draining cactus or succulent mix, incorporating perlite to improve aeration and drainage.

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High Organic Matter in Substrate

A potting mix that is too rich in peat moss or compost provides an ideal food source for gnat larvae. Aloe squarrosa requires a gritty, mineral-heavy substrate to prevent pest and rot issues.

Common

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How to confirm: Examine the soil texture; it should feel more like sand or fine gravel than dark, spongy earth.

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1 Apply an organic insecticide to eliminate the adult flies and larvae, such as a neem oil spray.