Why does your Hibiscus rosa-sinensis Cheerleader Cerise Dark Eye 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 soil typical for tropical hibiscus. Their larvae feed on decaying organic matter and can damage delicate hibiscus root hairs.
Constant moisture in the hibiscus potting medium creates the perfect breeding ground for fungus gnat larvae. High humidity and damp topsoil prevent the soil from drying out, encouraging fly populations to explode.
If there is uncomposted organic matter or dead hibiscus leaves resting on the soil surface, it provides a food source for the life cycle of these flies. The presence of these flies often indicates an imbalance in the soil's decomposition process.
Your plant might also be experiencing one of these issues: