Bug infestation - Ask Extension
Hello,
I am not sure if the 1st email sent, so I apologize if this is a repeat. I have provided a picture of a bug that has infested my basil, squash...
Knowledgebase
Bug infestation #873037
Asked June 13, 2024, 7:18 PM EDT
Hello,
I am not sure if the 1st email sent, so I apologize if this is a repeat. I have provided a picture of a bug that has infested my basil, squash and butterfly bush. I am not sure if it lives in the soil. It has been an ongoing problem for 4 years now. I was wondering what is the best way to get rid of them.
Thank you for your help!
Genesee County Michigan
Expert Response
This is a sawfly, a type of insect whose larval life stages look like caterpillars and feed on a variety of plant. The adult in your photo will not feed directly on leaves. The adults are highly mobile and hard to control with chemicals.
Check the undersides of the leaves for greenish caterpillars. These can be handpicked off or treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil on days when temps are below 85 degrees.
Check the undersides of the leaves for greenish caterpillars. These can be handpicked off or treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil on days when temps are below 85 degrees.
