Zantedeschia Captain Carrara Tiny Black Flies - Causes & Fixes

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Fungus Gnats (Sciaridae)

The presence of tiny black flies alongside moist soil is the classic sign of fungus gnats, which lay eggs in organic matter. The larvae live in the substrate and feed on decaying organic material or fine root hairs of the Calla Lily.

Very Common

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How to confirm: Place a yellow sticky trap near the base of the plant to confirm the presence of flying adults.

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1 Deploy yellow sticky traps to capture the adult flying gnats and break the reproductive cycle.

Super Ninja Fungus Gnat Traps - 30 Pack

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2 Reduce watering frequency and allow the top inch of soil to dry out completely to kill larvae in the substrate.

GROWIT Soil Moisture Meter - Blue

Water Meters

$12

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3 Top-dress the soil with a layer of horticultural perlite to create a dry barrier that prevents adults from reaching the organic matter to lay eggs.

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Overwatering and Root Rot Precursors

Excessive moisture in the Calla Lily's rhizome zone creates the perfect breeding ground for fungus gnats. This high humidity and damp soil can also lead to Pythium or Phytophthora, which weakens the plant's structural integrity.

Very Common

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How to confirm: Stick your finger two inches into the soil to see if it remains saturated long after watering.

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1 Reduce watering frequency and allow the top inch of soil to dry out completely to disrupt the fungus gnat breeding cycle.

GROWIT Soil Moisture Meter SMM-V3

Water Meters

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2 Repot the plant in a well-draining medium, incorporating perlite to improve aeration and prevent future root rot.

3 Deploy yellow sticky traps to capture the adult flying insects and reduce the population.

Super Ninja Fungus Gnat Traps - 30 Pack

30 pcs

In Stock

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Soil Organic Matter Decomposition

If you have recently added fresh compost or potting mix to the Zantedeschia, the influx of new nutrients can attract gnats seeking a place to breed. The flies are attracted to the scent of decomposing organic material within the pot.

Common

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How to confirm: Inspect if there is a layer of loose, uncompacted organic mulch on top of the soil surface.

build How to fix it

shopping_cart Recommended Products

1 Deploy yellow sticky traps near the soil surface to capture the adult flies and disrupt their breeding cycle.

Super Ninja Fungus Gnat Traps - 30 Pack

30 pcs

In Stock

2 Allow the top layer of soil to dry out more thoroughly between waterings to make the environment less hospitable for larvae.

GROWIT Soil Moisture Meter - Blue

Water Meters