Why does your Pelargonium Black Velvet F1 Pink 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-rich soil preferred by Pelargoniums. Their larvae feed on decaying organic matter and can damage the delicate root hairs of your Black Velvet Geranium.
High humidity and consistently wet substrate provide the ideal breeding ground for fungus gnat larvae. Pelargoniums are susceptible to root rot if the soil stays saturated, which also attracts these pests.
The presence of old, decaying peat or uncomposted organic matter in the potting mix serves as a primary food source for the larvae. This can lead to an outbreak of flies that target the plant's root zone.
Your plant might also be experiencing one of these issues: