Pest Control

Reseeded swards are particularly vulnerable to damage from pests during early establishment. Careful monitoring of swards is necessary with appropriate action taken where necessary.

Slugs • Can be a problem in wet areas or wet years. • High levels of trash will increase risk of attack. • Using bait points will help indicate potential problems. • If damage is visible slug pellets should be applied.

Leatherjackets • Can cause problems particularly in spring sown swards following grass. • More active in wetter/heavier soils. • Seedlings are severed at ground level, dead plants are found on the soil surface.

Frit Fly • Most common pest of reseeded swards in late summer and autumn. • Larvae from adult flies kill the growing point by burrowing into the grass shoot. • Turning the seeding plant yellow.