What Are the Little Black Flies on My Tomato Plants

If you're noticing tiny black flies hovering around your tomato plants, you're likely dealing with fungus gnats. These pesky insects are common in humid environments and are attracted to moist soil. However, they don't feed on the plant itself, so they aren't causing any direct damage to your tomatoes.

How to Identify Fungus Gnats

Fungus gnats are small, black flies that look a lot like fruit flies. They typically measure about 1/8 inch long and have long legs and antennae. You'll usually see them flying around the soil or resting on the leaves of the plant. You may also notice larvae in the soil, which are small, white, worm-like creatures with black heads.

Why Are Fungus Gnats Harmful?

While fungus gnats don't harm your plants directly, they can cause problems in a few different ways. First, their larvae feed on the organic matter in your soil, which can damage the root system of your plants. They also attract other insects like spider mites and thrips, which can cause more serious damage to your tomatoes.

How to Get Rid of Fungus Gnats

If you notice fungus gnats on your tomato plants, there are a few things you can do to get rid of them. First, try to reduce the moisture in the soil by watering less frequently or using a well-draining soil mix. You can also use sticky traps to catch the adult flies or introduce natural predators like nematodes or predatory mites. Another option is to use a soil drench with Bacillus thuringiensis, which will kill the larvae.

Preventing Fungus Gnats

The best way to deal with fungus gnats is to prevent an infestation from occurring in the first place. To do this, make sure you're using well-draining soil and avoid overwatering your tomato plants. You can also cover the soil with a layer of sand or gravel to make it less hospitable to the gnats. Finally, make sure to remove any dead plant matter from the soil to reduce the amount of organic material that the larvae can feed on.

Conclusion

Fungus gnats may be a nuisance, but they aren't usually harmful to your tomato plants. By taking a few simple steps to reduce moisture in the soil and prevent an infestation, you can keep your tomato plants healthy and free of these pesky insects. If you're still having trouble getting rid of the gnats, consider reaching out to a professional pest control company for help.