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Leatherjackets

Leatherjackets, the larvae of crane flies, are a common garden pest that can cause damage to lawns, garden borders, and vegetable plots by feeding on plant roots.

Any damage caused to your turf is usually superficial and most lawns will recover once the larvae metamorphosise into adults and fly away. In most cases the larvae will have no long-term effect on a lawn and will simply run their life-cycle unnoticed. Occasionally, however, and when populations are high there is a possibility that more severe damage can be caused, either via extensive larval feeding on the root system, or by surface damage caused by secondary predation, i.e. birds, mammals foraging for the larvae as a food source

Leatherjackets, the larvae of crane flies, are a common garden pest that can cause serious damage to lawns, garden borders, and vegetable plots by feeding on plant roots. They are often more prevalent after a wet autumn, as moist conditions support the survival of both their eggs and larvae.

The most common symptoms of a leatherjacket infestation include:

  • Patches of yellowing or dying grass
  • Loose turf that can be easily lifted
  • Plants wilting and showing signs of distress due to root damage
  • Increased presence of birds feeding on the lawn as they search for the larvae.

To manage leatherjackets, consider:

  • Physical Removal: Aerating your lawn and manually removing the larvae when they are close to the surface.
  • Beneficial Nematodes: Introducing nematodes into the soil that specifically target leatherjackets.
  • Reducing Moisture: Leatherjackets thrive in damp conditions, so managing soil moisture by reducing irrigation during risk periods can help prevent infestations.

Leatherjackets are typically present from late summer through the autumn, when crane flies lay their eggs in the soil. The larvae emerge from the eggs and begin feeding on roots over the winter months, causing damage to grass and plants. By late spring, they will pupate and emerge as crane flies, starting the life cycle anew. Managing them during their larval stage is key to preventing long-term damage to your garden.