Do Crane Flies Ruin Grass?
WouterWhen you have a lawn, you may wonder if crane flies ruin grass. The reason is that the larvae of crane flies, which are also known as leather jackets, eat grass roots. As a result, a lawn with an infestation of European crane flies may show patches of grass that are dead or discolored. The adult crane flies are harmless, but the larvae, known as nymphs, can be destructive.
The larvae of the crane fly are small and do not bite humans. They are attracted to unkempt lawns and areas with compost or leaf litter. However, they can also destroy nearby plants. If you notice the signs of a crane fly infestation on your lawn, consider hiring a professional pest control service to remove the insects.
Pesticides can provide a quick solution for the problem. These insecticides target the eggs and larvae of the crane fly. You should choose one that contains imidacloprid or pyrethroid. Make sure to calculate the square footage of your lawn before applying pesticides. In the meantime, you can use traditional bug repellents like citronella or bug zappers to keep the insects at bay.
The emergence and development of crane flies is largely determined by the time of year. Most species emerge in the spring and fall, when the temperatures begin to rise. They feed on the roots of grass. Once the larvae have fed, the grass will not be able to regenerate. While some species may be active during the day, most will hide underground until the night falls.
