Why does your Echeveria agavoides Christmas Eve 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 top layers of organic soil. They feed on decaying organic matter and can damage the developing root system of your Echeveria if left unchecked.
Fungus gnat populations explode when Echeveria soil stays damp for extended periods. For a succulent like 'Christmas Eve', constant moisture disrupts the necessary dry-down cycle, creating a breeding ground for pests.
A potting medium that is too rich in peat moss or contains uncomposted bark provides the perfect food source for gnat larvae. Echeverias require highly inorganic, well-draining substrates like pumice or perlite mixes.
Your plant might also be experiencing one of these issues: