Kalanchoe Passion Hera 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 lay eggs in moist organic matter. Their larvae feed on the fine root hairs of Kalanchoe, which can lead to stunted growth and reduced vigor.

Very Common

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How to confirm: Place a yellow sticky trap near the soil surface to see if small 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 top inch of soil to dry out completely between waterings to make the environment less hospitable for larvae.

GROWIT Soil Moisture Meter - Blue

Water Meters

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3 Apply a microbial-based soil drench to target the larvae living in the organic matter.

FoxFarm Bush Doctor Microbe Brew 1 Gallon

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Excessive Soil Moisture

Kalanchoe species are succulents that require well-draining soil; constantly wet medium provides a perfect breeding ground for fungus gnat larvae. High humidity and slow evaporation in the pot encourage adult fly activity.

Very Common

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How to confirm: Stick your finger two inches into the soil to check if it remains damp for too many consecutive days.

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1 Reduce watering frequency and allow the top inch of soil to dry out completely before watering again 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 retention.

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Decomposing Organic Matter

The presence of old, decaying leaf matter or overly rich potting soil provides food and shelter for fly larvae. In Kalanchoe Passion Hera, any rotting stem bases can also attract these pests.

Common

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How to confirm: Inspect the top layer of the soil for any decaying plant debris or moss that should be removed.

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shopping_cart Recommended Products

1 Remove all decaying organic matter, such as dead leaves or rotting stem bases, from the soil surface and the plant itself to eliminate breeding sites.

2 Apply an organic insecticide spray to target the adult flies and larvae, and use yellow sticky traps to capture flying adults.

Super Ninja Fungus Gnat Traps - 30 Pack

30 pcs

$7

In Stock

3 Ensure the top layer of soil is dry before watering and consider top-dressing with a layer of perlite to improve aeration and discourage larvae.