Fly Control for Narcissus Bulbs
Daffodils are also known by the scientific name Narcissus spp., which is often placed under shrubs, around specimen trees or as flower bed borders. These flowers are found in shades of red, orange, peach, cream, white, apricot or yellow. Bulb flies are pests of daffodils and are often difficult to control. Does this Spark an idea?
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Identification
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Daffodils are commonly infested with Narcissus bulb flies, which were introduced into the United States in 1869. Adult bulb flies look similar to small bees and are 1/2 inch in length. Bulb flies lay their eggs at the base of host plants, which are usually daffodils or members of the Amaryllis family. After hatching, the maggot-like larvae damage bulbs by tunneling through the plant and feeding on it.
Effects
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Daffodils infested with bulb flies have weak foliage that often turns yellow and is grassy looking. Infested flowers rot as the larvae eats its way through the stem and bulb of the flower. Bulbs may be soft, and growth is often stunted. Infestations of bulb flies can increase the likelihood of diseases because the wounds the larvae create provide fungi with an entry point.
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Cultural Control Methods
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Sanitation is key to controlling bulb fly infestations. Digging up all of your daffodils just before the foliage dies and discarding all infested or rotting bulbs will help prevent future infestations of bulb flies. Routinely inspect your daffodils for signs of bulb flies, including entrance holes and soft rotting bulbs.
Chemical Control Methods
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When infestations of bulb flies are heavy and your daffodils are sustaining serious damage or dying, chemical control methods may be necessary. According to Purdue University, applying dylox 80 percent SP as a soil drench around infested daffodils can reduce infestations by killing the larvae. Apply according to the product directions and reapply as necessary for continued control.
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References
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