This guide has been produced to assist you in the identification of many turfgrass pests.
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St Mark's fly (Bibio marci), March fly (B. hortulanus) and the fever fly (Dilophus febrilis) can all infest grass turf. They feed on decaying matter and sometimes roots. Damage is often only seen when high populations occur. They have a cream - brown, legless body with a definite brown / black head. |
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Two main species of chafer associated with turf problems - cockchafer (Melolontha melolontha) and the garden chafer (Phyllopertha horticola). Larvae are creamy white, with a brown head, three pairs of legs and a swollen tail end. They commonly lie in a C shape. Becoming more widespread. |
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Three species of earthworm produce casts in the UK. Casts cause uneven playing surfaces, are prone to smearing and provide ideal sites for weed establishment. Earthworms are encouraged by alkaline conditions and food provided in the form of returned clippings or organic fertilisers. High populations of earthworms may encourage moles. |
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Microscopic, non-segmented roundworms. Symptoms include a weak, pale - brown coloured patchy turf. The leading edge of damage is diffuse. Patches spread outwards. Turf prone to drought. Diseases (eg. anthracnose) may cause secondary infection. |
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Larvae of the crane fly (or daddy-long-legs; Tipula spp.). They are grey-brown legless grubs. The larvae chew and sever the stems of grass plants. Birds will pull out pieces of turf looking for leatherjackets. Larvae can feed throughout mild winters. |
