Why does your Davallia mariesii (Hares Foot Fern) 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, which thrive in the moist, organic-rich substrate favored by Davallia mariesii. Their larvae live in the top layer of soil and feed on decaying organic matter and fungal mycelium.
Fungus gnat populations explode when the rhizomes and substrate of a Hare's Foot Fern remain saturated for too long. Constant dampness provides the perfect breeding ground for larvae in the potting mix.
If the fern is planted in a heavy peat-based mix that has begun to break down or develop mold, it attracts flies seeking breeding sites. The decaying rhizome or old substrate can act as a primary food source for the insect lifecycle.
Your plant might also be experiencing one of these issues:
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