Why does your Thymus vulgaris have tiny black flies? Diagnose the cause and fix it with our step-by-step guide.
Pet FriendlyThe presence of tiny black flies in thyme is most commonly due to fungus gnats, whose larvae thrive in the moist organic matter found in overwatered potting soil. They feed on decaying plant material and can damage the fine root systems of Thyme.
Thyme is a Mediterranean herb that requires well-draining, gritty soil; persistent dampness creates an ideal breeding ground for moisture-loving insects. Excessive water prevents the soil from drying out between waterings, attracting pests.
While not the flies themselves, underlying root rot caused by poor drainage often provides the decaying organic matter that attracts black flies. As the thyme roots decay, the plant may show wilting despite the soil being wet.
Your plant might also be experiencing one of these issues: