Why does your Begonia tuberhybrida have tiny black flies? Diagnose the cause and fix it with our step-by-step guide.
The tiny black flies are likely fungus gnat adults, whose larvae live in the top layers of moist soil and feed on organic matter and decaying plant roots. For Tuberous Begonias, high humidity and frequent watering create the perfect breeding ground for these pests.
Excessive moisture in Tuberous Begonia tubers can lead to fungal root rot, which creates a nutrient-rich environment for fungus gnat larvae. The presence of flies often indicates that the soil organic matter is decomposing due to overwatering.
While less common than fungus gnats, some small dark beetles can be mistaken for flies and thrive in the damp, rich potting mix required by Begonias. These pests may target the tender tuberous structures directly.
Your plant might also be experiencing one of these issues: