Leatherjacket Alert: Inspect Crops Now

UK - February 22, 2007

Dow AgroSciences’ latest PestWatch warns that leatherjacket populations are ‘high’ or ‘very high’ and at risk crops should be inspected now.

Dow AgroSciences’ Jim Butchart explains: “This latest report covers more than 200 sites across the UK and the message is clear: leatherjacket populations are almost as high as last year.  In Scotland and the South East we are seeing very high levels, even worse than last year. Damage is already being seen in winter cereals in the South, and we have also had reports of damage to greens on a number of high profile golf courses!”

“Growers should check any fields with a history of leatherjackets.  Look out for large numbers of rooks and crows feeding on the larvae. Risk assessments and testing for the presence of leatherjacket larvae will identify fields that need treatment.  Assess each field separately as populations will vary. If treatment is justified, use Dursban WG at 1.0 kg/ha in at least 200 litres of water. High infestations should be treated as soon as ground conditions permit.”