Leatherjackets

Leatherjackets are one of the worst insect pests. An infestation after a wet autumn can cause considerable damage to the lawn. Leather jackets are the larvae of crane flies (daddy long legs). 

There are many different species of craneflies in the UK and while many feed on decaying plant matter and contribute to a healthy garden, some leatherjackets feed on the roots and stems of grasses and other plants. Adult crane flies typically lay eggs in the lawn in autumn, and a few weeks later young leatherjackets hatch from the eggs. The larvae start feeding on the roots of the grass and grow large enough to cause significant damage. The larvae pupate and adult crane flies emerge. 

Signs of an infestation of leatherjackets include patches of dead grass; when the turf is lifted larvae can be seen just below the surface confirming the cause. Birds will often search for and feed on the larvae, a good natural means of control. Aerating the lawn and improving drainage will help prevent attacks, and in more severe cases pathogenic nematodes watered into the soil to infect the leatherjackets with a bacterial disease. Correct application of nematodes requires very specific conditions; please contact Lawnosity for help!