Why does your Kalanchoe Passion Nilus have tiny black flies? Diagnose the cause and fix it with our step-by-step guide.
The tiny black flies are likely the adult stage of fungus gnats, which thrive in the moist organic matter of Kalanchoe potting soil. Their larvae feed on decomposing organic material and can damage the fine feeder roots of your Passion Nilus.
Kalanchoe species are succulents that require well-draining media; persistent moisture creates the perfect breeding ground for fungus gnat larvae. If the substrate stays damp for too long, it encourages both fungal growth and insect infestation.
If using a peat-heavy potting mix, the high concentration of decomposing organic material provides an abundant food source for fly larvae. Passion Nilus prefers more inorganic components like perlite or pumice to discourage this cycle.
Your plant might also be experiencing one of these issues: