Why does your Lilium orientalis Cherbourg have tiny black flies? Diagnose the cause and fix it with our step-by-step guide.
The larvae of these flies live in the upper layers of the soil, feeding on organic matter and decaying root tissue of the Lily. The presence of tiny black flies is almost always a sign that the potting medium is excessively moist, providing an ideal breeding ground for the larvae.
While not a direct cause of flies, the presence of fungus gnats often indicates that the Lily's roots are beginning to rot due to anaerobic conditions. This creates the moist, decaying environment that attracts the flies in the first place.
While less common for indoor lilies, these flies are attracted to the fermenting nectar of the large 'Cherbourg' blooms or decaying organic matter in the pot. They are attracted to the sweet scent characteristic of Oriental Lily varieties.
Your plant might also be experiencing one of these issues: