Cabbage Root Fly
Scientific Name
Delia radicum
Description
Cabbage Root Flies are small flies whose larvae infest the roots of cabbage and related crops, leading to wilting and stunted growth. Their presence is often indicated by discolored, damaged roots.
Characteristics
Adults are small and dark, while larvae are creamy white maggots that tunnel through roots, disrupting water and nutrient uptake.
Control Methods
- Organic sprays: Apply neem oil or bio-nematicides during early infestation to reduce egg laying and larval survival.
- Cultural practices: Improve soil health with organic amendments and ensure proper drainage to deter breeding.
- Preventive methods: Practice crop rotation and remove plant debris to reduce larval habitat; monitor fields early in the season.
- Biological controls: Encourage beneficial soil microbes, parasitic nematodes, and predatory insects that target the larvae.
- Mechanical physical: Use floating row covers to block adult flies and deploy sticky traps to capture them.
Natural Enemies
- Parasitic Nematodes
- Beneficial Soil Microbes
- Predatory Insects
Plants Affected by Cabbage Root Fly
No associated plants found for this pest.