Why does your Lilium orientalis Nova Zembla have tiny black flies? Diagnose the cause and fix it with our step-by-step guide.
These small flies breed in the moist organic matter of the lily's potting medium. While adults are a nuisance, their larvae feed on decaying organic material and can damage the delicate root hairs of your Nova Zembla Lily.
Excessive moisture in the bulb's substrate attracts fungus gnats and creates a breeding ground for larvae. For Orientals like Nova Zembla, which require well-draining soil, waterlogged conditions are highly problematic.
If the Lily has old, dying foliage at the base, these flies may be attracted to the decomposing organic matter. They are not feeding on the plant itself but are present due to the decaying plant tissue.
Your plant might also be experiencing one of these issues: