Pacific Northwest Insect Management Handbook

Spinach seed-European cranefly

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Image related to Spinach seed-European cranefly
European crane fly
Tipula paludosa Meigen
Egg(s)
© Ken Gray Insect Image Collection
Image related to Spinach seed-European cranefly
European crane fly
Tipula paludosa Meigen
Immature on host
© Ken Gray Insect Image Collection
Image related to Spinach seed-European cranefly
European crane fly
Tipula paludosa Meigen
Female adult
© Ken Gray Insect Image Collection

Tipula paludosa

Pest description and crop damage Small, gray-brown, worm-like larvae that develop a tough skin and are commonly called leatherjackets. They feed on clover and a number of vegetables.

Management-chemical control

  • azadirachtin (Neemix) at 4 to 10 fl oz/a (0.012 to 0.031 lb ai/a). PHI 0 days. REI 4 hr. Begin applications at first sign of infestation. Multiple applications and thorough coverage are necessary for effective control. Apply every 7 to 10 days as needed. This botanical pesticide acts slowly. Spray early, well before harvest, and check for effect. Some formulations are OMRI-listed for organic use.

See also:

Spinach-European cranefly

Kaur, N. (Ed.). 2021 Pacific Northwest Insect Management Handbook.
© Oregon State University.

Use pesticides safely!

  • Wear protective clothing and safety devices as recommended on the label. Bathe or shower after each use.
  • Read the pesticide label—even if you’ve used the pesticide before. Follow closely the instructions on the label (and any other directions you have).
  • Be cautious when you apply pesticides. Know your legal responsibility as a pesticide applicator. You may be liable for injury or damage resulting from pesticide use.

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