Why does your Zantedeschia Captain Marrero 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 breed in the moist organic matter of the potting medium. Their larvae feed on decaying plant material and can damage the fine root hairs of your Calla Lily, leading to nutrient deficiencies.
Calla Lilies require well-draining soil; constant moisture creates an ideal environment for fungus gnat larvae and may lead to rhizome rot. If the soil stays saturated, it lacks the oxygen necessary for healthy tuber development.
An excess of decomposing peat moss or uncomposted bark in the potting mix provides a high-nitrogen food source for larvae. As this material breaks down, it attracts flies looking for a place to deposit eggs.
Your plant might also be experiencing one of these issues: