Asparagus-Garden symphylan

Scutigerella immaculata

Pest description, crop damage and life history

See:

Management-biological control

Many organisms prey on symphylans in the field, including true centipedes, predatory mites, predaceous ground beetles, and various fungi. However, little is known about their effect on symphylan populations.

Management-cultural control

Symphylan damage generally is associated with soils that are high in organic matter content and have good soil structure. Symphylans do not thrive in either compact or sandy soils, because these soils do not provide them with adequate tunnels for their movement (symphylans cannot make their own burrows). There is some evidence that packing down the soil surface after planting may reduce injury.

Management-chemical control: HOME USE

  • azadirachtin (as a mix with pyrethrins)-Some formulations are OMRI-listed for organic use.
  • pyrethrins-Some formulations are OMRI-listed for organic use.

Management-chemical control: COMMERCIAL USE

  • chloropicrin (Telone)-Apply preplant only.