Leather Jackets And Daddy Longlegs.

Question

I have loads of crane flies or daddy long legs in my garden and house from my lawn. How can I control them?

Answer

Crane flies, commonly known as daddy long legs, are harmless flying insects, but their larvae—called leather jackets—can cause significant damage to your lawn by feeding on grass roots.

To control leather jackets in your lawn, apply nematodes (beneficial microscopic organisms) directly to the affected areas. The best time to apply is from late August through to the end of October, ideally about one week after you first spot adult crane flies (daddy long legs) flying around your garden. This timing is crucial because the adults lay their eggs within a few days of emerging, and treating shortly after ensures you target the young larvae when they’re most vulnerable.

For detailed guidance on identifying leather jacket damage and effective control methods, visit our comprehensive guide: Leather Jacket Control on Lawns

Quick Facts:

• Adult form: Crane fly (daddy long legs) – harmless flying insect
• Larval form: Leather jacket – lawn pest that damages grass roots
• Treatment: Nematodes applied in late summer/early autumn
• Best timing: Approximately 1 week after seeing adult crane flies

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