Hi Ianna,

Black flies (sciara flies) are usually an indication of too much peat in your soil.

I also had problems with aphids and echeverias, but only if the plants were in flower. Soapy water would get rid of them for a while.

What was the concentration you used? I use safer's often and haven't had any problems.

I guess it must be too strong.

Cactus Marris I used a cactus soil mix. Too much peat huh! Well I have the plants in holding pots awaiting replanting outside in summer. What do you recommend?

I use 1 TBSP Ivory Snow soap, not detergent, to 1 gallon of water. I use it in my indoor plants as well as my flower and vegetable gardens. For mildew 1 part milk to 3 parts water on vegetable plants. I use Lysol bathroom spray for mildew on house plants but keep it off the flowers.

Thanks Ron. Hey Okanagan! Spent a year there as an exchange student. Absolutely loved the area..