Many insects play an important role in gardens, but when left unchecked, can “damage” or even “kill” plants over time.
1. Crane flies
The gardening experts at The Greenhouse People explained: “Also known as daddy long-legs, these mosquito-like bugs are not only a blight on your summer evenings, but are also secretly destroying your lawn.
“If you notice your grass becoming patchy or discoloured, the first place you should check is in your soil. Crane fly larvae, also known as leatherjackets, love to munch on grass roots, effectively weakening turf and can kill large patches of grass.
“They only come up to the soil’s surface during late spring and autumn and can only be treated during these periods.”
According to theirs, crane flies love a moist area to lay their eggs so it is important to keep lawns short throughout the spring as well as not watering it too much.
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Britons could also try adding an acidic lawn nutrient such as iron sulphate which will help to strengthen grass while deter crane flies.
2. Aphids
Gardeners will be familiar aphids which can cause “significant damage” to plants and even encourage fungal growth.
They can be identified by the yellowing and curling of leaves, distorted flowers or fruit, as well as black leaves or stems.
The experts said: “You can create your own insecticide for aphids by mixing a couple of teaspoons of dish soap or vinegar in a bottle of water. Spray plants generally with the mixture, which will help destroy the outer membrane of the insect and kill it.”
3. Spider mites
The most common spider mite in the UK is the red spider mite, which can be identified by the two dark spots on its back.
They thrive in hot, dry weather, so are more likely to be noticed in the summer months, especially on indoor plants as well as in greenhouses.
To “deter” them, mist plants regularly and keep bowls of water around plants to create more humidity. The pros explained: “Essential oils like lemon and peppermint oil are also toxic to spider mites, so a mixture of water and a few drops of the oil can effectively get rid of mites.
“For more severe cases, consider introducing a biological control like predatory mites or gall midges that will eat the spider mites.”
4. Box tree caterpillars
Caterpillars typically hatch around spring and can be found in gardens throughout the summer. While many varieties of caterpillar are relatively harmless, box tree caterpillars can “totally destroy” garden plants.
They get their name because of their preference for box plants, commonly used as hedging. The pros noted: “You can identify these caterpillars by their green colouring with black and white spots or from the webbing on leaves.
“The best way to get rid of these caterpillars is by picking them off by hand. A pheromone trap, which attracts males to and traps them, can also be used to prevent them reproducing.”
