Kalanchoe Passion Artemis Tiny Black Flies - Causes & Fixes

Jump to cause: Fungus Gnats Excessive Soil Moisture Decomposing Organic Matter

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Fungus Gnats

The tiny black flies are likely the adult stage of fungus gnats, which thrive in the moist, organic-rich soil often used for succulents like Kalanchoe. Their larvae feed on decaying organic matter and can damage the fine root hairs of the Passion Artemis.

Very Common

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How to confirm: Place a yellow sticky trap near the soil surface to see if small black flies are captured.

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

Super Ninja Fungus Gnat Traps - 30 Pack

30 pcs

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2 Allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings, as fungus gnats thrive in overly moist environments.

GROWIT Soil Moisture Meter - Blue

Water Meters

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

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Excessive Soil Moisture

Kalanchoe Passion Artemis is a succulent that requires well-draining soil; frequent watering creates the damp environment necessary for fungus gnat larvae to survive. Constant moisture also increases the risk of secondary fungal pathogens in the stem.

Very Common

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How to confirm: Insert your finger two inches into the soil to check if it remains wet for more than a week.

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1 Reduce watering frequency and allow the soil to dry out completely between waterings to disrupt the fungus gnat life cycle.

GROWIT Soil Moisture Meter SMM-V3

Water Meters

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2 Apply 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 Repot the Kalanchoe in a well-draining succulent mix, incorporating perlite to improve aeration and prevent future moisture buildup.

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Decomposing Organic Matter

If there is old, decaying peat moss or uncomposted bark in the potting mix, it provides an ideal breeding ground for flies. These nutrients attract pests that can eventually lead to rot in the Kalanchoe's fleshy leaves.

Common

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How to confirm: Inspect the top layer of the soil for any visible fuzzy mold or heavily decomposed organic debris.

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shopping_cart Recommended Products

1 Remove the top layer of old, decomposing organic matter from the soil surface to disrupt the breeding cycle of the flies.

2 Repot your Kalanchoe in fresh, well-draining potting soil to eliminate any remaining decaying material and prevent future infestations.