Why does your Capsicum annuum Favorit Purple Red have tiny black flies? Diagnose the cause and fix it with our step-by-step guide.
The larvae of these flies live in the soil and feed on organic matter and fine root hairs of the pepper plant. Their presence is almost always a direct indicator of overly moist growing media, which can lead to secondary root rot issues in Capsicum annuum.
Small, dark insects on ornamental peppers may be aphids that have settled on the tender new growth. While often more sedentary than flies, they can be mistaken for small flying insects when moving between stems.
Similar to fungus gnats, these flies thrive in high-humidity environments typical of ornamental pepper cultivation. They are attracted to the decaying organic matter found in potting mixes used for decorative peppers.
Your plant might also be experiencing one of these issues: