Zantedeschia Santa Fe Tiny Black Flies - Causes & Fixes

search Possible Causes

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Fungus Gnats

The tiny black flies are likely fungus gnat larvae or adults, which thrive in the moist, organic-rich soil required by Zantedeschia. The larvae feed on decaying organic matter and can damage the delicate root system of your 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 adult fungus gnats and prevent them from laying more eggs in the soil.

Super Ninja Fungus Gnat Traps - 30 Pack

30 pcs

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2 Allow the top inch of soil to dry out completely between waterings to disrupt the life cycle of the larvae.

GROWIT Analog Soil Moisture Meter

Water Meters

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3 Apply a biological control or organic insecticide to target the larvae and adults effectively.

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Overwatering / Soil Moisture Excess

Excessive moisture in the rhizome area creates a perfect breeding ground for fungus gnat larvae. Constant wetness can also lead to rhizome rot, which provides more decaying organic material for the flies to inhabit.

Very Common

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How to confirm: Stick your finger two inches into the soil; if it feels soggy or muddy, you are watering too frequently.

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shopping_cart Recommended Products

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

—

2 Apply yellow sticky traps near the soil surface to capture adult flies and prevent further reproduction.

Super Ninja Fungus Gnat Traps - 30 Pack

30 pcs

In Stock

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

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High Organic Matter in Potting Mix

Zantedeschia Santa Fe loves nutrient-rich soil, but high levels of compost or peat moss can attract flies looking for a place to lay eggs. The decomposition process releases CO2 and moisture that attracts these pests.

Common

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How to confirm: Inspect the top layer of the potting medium for small amounts of decomposing mulch or heavily decomposed organic matter.

build How to fix it

shopping_cart Recommended Products

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

Super Ninja Fungus Gnat Traps - 30 Pack

30 pcs

In Stock

2 Reduce the moisture and organic surface area by adding a layer of inorganic top dressing like perlite or clay pebbles to disrupt the fly's breeding cycle.