Topic: Solomans Seal eaten away...

[Debs]

My Solomans Seal plant is covered in caterpillars which are

busy stripping the leaves to a bare stalk.

The caterpillars are grey coloured with a black head - I think

they are Dark Arches caterpillars.

Should I leave them to feast or take action??

Any advice gratefully received

debs

[Robert_Brenchley]

Sounds like Solomon's Seal sawfly. Soapy water should see them off.

[Marianne]

Debs

Nothing would feast on any of my plants  >:( >:(

See them off with a squirty thingy bottle and go for it!! ;D

[chriszog]

They are definatly Solomons Seal Sawfly see the post I started on Wildlife. There are some pictures on there and apparently the plant will be just as good next year.
Regards
Chriszog

[Debs]

Phew ! thanks for that Chriszog ;D

I was slightly worried...

Perhaps the Koi Carp in the pond may like a feast ;D

Debs

[Gardenantics]

Hi Debs,

Try a little shock therapy, Lay a sheet of plastic under your plants, and then shake the leaves, and the little b*****s will drop off and you can then feed em to your fish. Next year, if you see slow flying jet -black flys around the plants, then squish them, as these are about to lay eggs on your plants.

Brian

[Debs]

Thanks Gardenantics :)

Have not looked at the plant for 2-3 days, so it may not be there now :-\

Will investigate today.

Debs