Daddy Long Legs or crane flies in Your Home What You Need to Know

Daddy long legs, also known as crane flies, are a common sight in many homes. While these long-legged insects may seem harmless, they can actually be a sign of a problem in your lawn. In this article, we’ll explore what daddy long legs are, why they may be in your home, and what you can do about it.

What are Daddy Long Legs

Daddy long legs are a type of flying insect that belongs to the Tipulidae family. They are often mistaken for mosquitoes due to their long, slender bodies and spindly legs. However, daddy long legs do not bite and are not harmful to humans.

Why Do Daddy Long Legs Come Inside

If you have noticed an increase in daddy long legs inside your home, it could be a sign of a problem in your lawn. Daddy long legs start their life cycle as leather jackets, which are the larvae of the crane fly. These larvae live in the soil and feed on the roots of your grass. If you have a lot of daddy long legs in your home, it could mean that you have a large population of leather jackets in your lawn.

What Can You Do About It

If you suspect that you have a problem with leather jackets in your lawn, there are a few things that you can do to help control their population. First, make sure that your lawn is healthy and well-maintained. A healthy lawn will be less susceptible to damage from leather jackets. You can also try using a natural insecticide, like neem oil or garlic spray, to help control the population of leather jackets or a leather jacket nematode treatment

If you are still having problems with daddy long legs in your home, you may want to consider contacting your GardenAdvice garden advisor. They can help identify the source of the problem and recommend the best course of action.

While daddy long legs may seem harmless, they can be a sign of a larger problem in your lawn. By taking steps to control the population of leather jackets, you can help prevent daddy long legs from making their way into your home. With a little bit of effort, you can keep these spindly-legged insects where they belong: outside in your lawn.