Why does your Brassica Songbird F1 Round White have tiny black flies? Diagnose the cause and fix it with our step-by-step guide.
Pet FriendlyThe tiny black flies are likely Fungus Gnats, whose larvae thrive in the moist organic matter found in the soil of ornamental brassicas. The adults emerge to lay eggs, but the larvae feed on decaying roots and fungal mycelium around the cabbage base.
Excessive moisture in the pot or garden bed creates an ideal breeding ground for fungus gnat populations. This can lead to secondary root rot, which weakens the structural integrity of the ornamental cabbage head.
While less common for this specific species, certain Diptera species target the succulent leaves of Brassica varieties. These flies may appear to be hovering near the tight central rosette of the 'Songbird' cabbage.
Your plant might also be experiencing one of these issues: