Why does your Phalaenopsis Basel have tiny black flies? Diagnose the cause and fix it with our step-by-step guide.
Pet FriendlyThe tiny black flies are likely the adult stage of fungus gnats, which lay eggs in moist organic matter. Their larvae feed on the decaying organic material in orchid bark and can occasionally damage delicate Phalaenopsis root hairs.
High moisture levels in the Phalaenopsis bark or sphagnum moss create the perfect breeding ground for gnats. Prolonged dampness also increases the risk of bacterial rot in the orchid's roots.
Old, decomposing orchid bark or accumulated debris at the bottom of the pot provides nutrients for larvae. As the medium breaks down, it loses aeration and becomes a reservoir for pests.
Your plant might also be experiencing one of these issues: