Why does your Hibiscus rosa sinensis Cheerleader Dutch Orange have tiny black flies? Diagnose the cause and fix it with our step-by-step guide.
The tiny black flies are likely fungus gnats, whose larvae live in the top layer of soil and feed on organic matter. High moisture levels in the Hibiscus potting medium attract the adults to lay eggs near the roots.
Excessive watering in 'Cheerleader' cultivars creates a damp, anaerobic environment that promotes fungal growth. This fungus serves as the primary food source for fungus gnat larvae, creating a cycle of infestation.
If using a heavy compost-based potting mix, the breakdown of uncomposted organic material provides an ideal breeding ground for flies. This is particularly common in hibiscus plants kept in large, dense containers.
Your plant might also be experiencing one of these issues:
English
Italiano
