Why does your Begonia Havana Scarlet 8276 have tiny black flies? Diagnose the cause and fix it with our step-by-step guide.
The tiny black flies are likely the adult stage of fungus gnats, which thrive in the moist, organic-rich soil preferred by Begonias. Their larvae feed on decaying organic matter and can damage the delicate root systems of Scarlet Begonias.
Begonia Havana Scarlet requires well-draining soil, but consistently wet substrate provides the perfect breeding ground for fungus gnat larvae. High humidity and lack of drying cycles between waterings encourage adult fly populations to emerge.
Potting mixes containing high amounts of peat moss or compost can harbor gnat eggs. As these organic components decompose, they provide the primary food source for the larvae that precede the visible black flies.
Your plant might also be experiencing one of these issues: