Leatherjackets

[browndmb]

Is there anything to be done to rid me of these pests. Every morning I lose a plant with these things as I dig around the roots and find them there but by that time it is too late
Thanks for any suggestions

[smurfchops]

I have just found this organic solution - much safer and kinder to the environment, birds, etc than chemicals. After heavy rain or having thoroughly watered any yellow patches in the lawn (or areas around the plants), cover the earth with black plastic sacks and leave overnight. The leatherjackets will come to the surface and can be collected in the morning. Encourage natural predators, such as spiders and garden birds, especially starlings. Sounds a bit fiddly but worthwhile in the long run. Good luck !

[AlBags]

I/va a feeling that these are not leatherjackets ... but Vine Weevil larva.
Check out here ... I have had problems with these before. They will devour annual roots in a matter of a day or two, til no root system left.
http://www.letsgogard...mation/VineWeevil.htm

I use Nematodes. Natures "helping hand" with pest conrol : )

[cazzz1975]

I thought it would be too early for leather jackets? they are normally an end of summer to autumn pest

[boxtops]

I've got leatherjackets already, hiding under stones, along with the pesky snails.

[cazzz1975]

gawd the golf course is going to be covered in them, im not talking a few, Im talking hundreds.

[AlBags]

yep .. I'm certain are larvae.
Can be imported in with potted annuals from garden centres. That's why you should check these plants carefully around the roots when you plant out.

[boxtops]

Second thoughts albags, what I have always called leatherjackets are actually woodlice:

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Woodlouse

I believe the real leatherjacket is the larva of the cranefly? It's the woodlice which seem to eat the roots of my plants.

[cazzz1975]

they are crane flies

[AlBags]

lol Box ...

Not sure woodlice eat roots tho.

[AlBags]

agree Cranefly larva a poss, too, as Cazz says.