|
Thu, Jan 5, 06 at 8:01
| Hello to the allium experts from a novice. I planted leeks in my garden plot at a communty garden last year and although they grew very well, most were infested with what I found out to be onion root maggots. I planted garlic this fall, (in a separate raised bed) and I'm concerned about the garlic getting infested. Anyone have any good non-chemical ways to deal with this pest? I've cleaned out the beds and left no infested leeks. However, since this is a community garden plot there are many beds around that I'm sure have not been cleaned and may contain onions (both wild and cultivated) that probably contain this pest. Since it's a fly as an adult it can travel a fair distance to infect new crops. Any help would be appreciated, as I'm planning to also grow leeks again this spring and would prefer them to be maggot-free! |
Follow-Up Postings:
|
| Root maggots of both alliums & brassicas are well controlled w/ beneficial nematodes. Application is usually when the soil hits 50F+ . I have found a 90%+ success rate and an application usually lasts 2 years. Floating row covers are often recommended, but except for short term crops like radish or turnips I have not done well w/ them. |
|
- Posted by foxglove_pa z6 PA (My Page) on Mon, Jan 9, 06 at 8:46
| Thanks for the advice--I'll order some nematodes in my January seed order. I saw some in the catalog. Not sure if the row covers will be a practical solution for me--I'll see how the nematodes work out first I think. |
Please Note: Only registered members are able to post messages to this forum. If you are a member, please log in. If you aren't yet a member, join now!
Return to the Allium Forum
Instructions
- You must be a registered member and logged in to post messages on our forums.
- Posting is a two-step process. Once you have composed your message, you will be taken to the preview page. You will then have a chance to review the contents and make changes.
- After posting your message, you may need to refresh the forum page in order to see it.
- It is illegal to post copyrighted material without the owner's consent.
- HTML codes are allowed in the message field only.
- No advertising is allowed in any of the forums.
- If you would like to practice posting or uploading photos, please visit our Test forum.
- If you need assistance, please Contact Us and we will be happy to help.