Zantedeschia Captain Fresco Tiny Black Flies - Causes & Fixes

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Fungus Gnats

The tiny black flies are likely the adult stage of fungus gnats, which thrive in the moist organic matter of the potting soil. Their larvae feed on decaying plant roots and fungi, which can lead to root damage in Zantedeschia cultivars.

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 Allow the top inch of soil to dry out completely between waterings to make the environment less hospitable for larvae.

GROWIT Analog Soil Moisture Meter

Water Meters

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3 Top-dress the soil with a layer of horticultural perlite or sand to create a physical barrier that prevents adults from laying eggs in the organic matter.

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Excessive Soil Moisture

Frequent overwatering creates the anaerobic, damp conditions that fungus gnat eggs require to hatch. For a Zantedeschia Captain Fresco, high moisture levels also increase the risk of rhizome rot.

Very Common

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How to confirm: Stick your finger two inches into the soil; if it feels muddy or saturated, you are likely overwatering.

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1 Reduce watering frequency and allow the top inch of soil to dry out completely before watering again to eliminate the damp environment fungus gnats thrive in.

GROWIT Soil Moisture Meter SMM-V3

Water Meters

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2 Deploy yellow sticky traps to capture the adult flying gnats and disrupt their breeding cycle.

Super Ninja Fungus Gnat Traps - 30 Pack

30 pcs

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3 Repot the plant in a well-draining medium, incorporating perlite to improve aeration and prevent rhizome rot.

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Overly Rich/Decaying Organic Matter

The presence of decomposing peat moss or uncomposted organic matter in the potting mix provides a perfect food source for gnat larvae. This nutrient-rich environment attracts flies looking for a place to lay eggs.

Common

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How to confirm: Inspect the top layer of soil for visible patches of mold or heavy decomposition.

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1 Apply a biological control to eliminate the larvae and adult flies in the soil.

Super Ninja Fungus Gnat Traps - 30 Pack

30 pcs

In Stock

2 Replace the top layer of soil with a drier, less organic medium to remove the food source for the larvae.