Why does your Aloe vera have tiny black flies? Diagnose the cause and fix it with our step-by-step guide.
The larvae of fungus gnats thrive in the moist, organic-rich topsoil of Aloe vera pots, feeding on decaying plant matter and roots. The presence of tiny black flies is a classic sign of an infestation fueled by overly frequent watering.
While root rot is a fungal condition, the decaying, mushy roots of an Aloe vera plant create a perfect breeding ground and food source for various small flies. The black flies are often a symptom of the underlying moisture issue causing the decay.
Similar to fungus gnats, sciarid flies are attracted to high humidity and damp substrates. In Aloe vera, they often congregate around the base of the leaves where moisture tends to linger.
Your plant might also be experiencing one of these issues: