Graptosedum Bronze Tiny Black Flies - Causes & Fixes

Jump to cause: Fungus Gnats Sciarid Flies Fruit Flies

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Fungus Gnats

The most common cause for tiny black flies in succulents; their larvae thrive in the moist organic matter of potting soil. They are attracted to the damp environment required by many growers, often leading to root issues in Graptosedum.

Very Common

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How to confirm: Set up a yellow sticky trap near the base of the plant to see if small winged insects are captured.

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1 Deploy yellow sticky traps to capture the adult flying gnats and break the breeding cycle.

Super Ninja Fungus Gnat Traps - 30 Pack

30 pcs

$7

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2 Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings to kill larvae, and use a moisture meter to monitor the soil depth.

GROWIT Soil Moisture Meter - Blue

Water Meters

$12

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3 Top-dress the soil with a layer of horticultural perlite or sand to create a dry barrier that prevents adults from laying eggs in the organic matter.

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Sciarid Flies

Similar to fungus gnats, these flies inhabit decaying organic material within the substrate. They are particularly prevalent if the Graptosedum's soil has been left too wet for extended periods.

Common

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How to confirm: Check if the soil surface feels excessively damp or if there is a smell of decay in the pot.

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1 Reduce watering frequency and allow the substrate to dry out completely between waterings to disrupt the life cycle of the flies.

GROWIT Soil Moisture Meter SMM-V3

Water Meters

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2 Deploy yellow sticky traps near the soil surface to capture adult flies and prevent further breeding.

Super Ninja Fungus Gnat Traps - 30 Pack

30 pcs

$7

In Stock

3 Top-dress the soil with a layer of horticultural perlite to create a drier barrier that prevents flies from reaching the organic matter.

warning

Fruit Flies

If you have kept overripe fruit near your Graptosedum, these flies may be attracted to the area. While they do not live in the soil, their presence can be mistaken for a plant pest.

Common

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How to confirm: Observe if the flies are hovering around nearby organic waste or fruit rather than emerging directly from the soil.

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1 Remove any overripe or decaying fruit from the vicinity of your plant to eliminate the primary attractant for fruit flies.

2 Set up a trap near the plant using a natural attractant to capture any remaining flies in the area.