Sasha CampbellGall midges are tiny flies that can cause problems in gardens and orchards by laying eggs on plants. Once the larvae hatch, they burrow into plant tissue, causing swelling or “galls.”
These galls can reduce plant yields. Fortunately, there are several natural methods to help control and eliminate these pests from your garden or orchard.
Identification
Gall midges belong to the family Cecidomyiidae, a group of small flies.
Most species lay their eggs in plant tissue. Once the eggs hatch, the larvae feed on the plant, resulting in the formation of galls [1].
Gall midges are often host-specific [2]. This means that different species of gall midges affect different types of plants.
Depending on the type of gall and how old the plant is, the galls created by gall midges can cause problems for the plant. They may weaken stems, leaves, and flowers, reducing the plant’s overall vitality.
In some cases, the galls restrict nutrient flow, leading to stunted growth, deformed fruit, or even plant death.
While gall midges rarely kill plants, they can greatly reduce crop yields.
How to Get Rid of Gall Midges Naturally
Below are some home remedies and natural methods to help control these pests.
1. Sticky Traps
One of the simplest and most effective methods for controlling gall midges is using sticky traps. These traps can catch adult midges outside before they lay their eggs on plants.
Therefore, place red or white sticky traps near susceptible plants.
The color of the traps attracts the midges. Once they come into contact with the trap, the sticky surface will prevent them from escaping.
2. Natural Enemies
Predators such as ladybugs, lacewings, and some predatory wasps can help reduce midge populations.
These beneficial insects may feed on gall midge eggs, larvae, or even the adults, reducing their numbers.
3. Beneficial Nematodes
Some beneficial nematodes can also attack and kill gall midge larvae in the soil. These nematodes are applied to the soil where gall midges lay their eggs.
Once inside the larvae, the nematodes release bacteria that kill the host. Beneficial nematodes are a safe, non-toxic option for controlling gall midges organically.
4. Control Weeds
Weeds often serve as a host for some gall midges, allowing them to thrive and spread.
So, by removing weeds from your garden or orchard, you eliminate potential breeding grounds for these pests.
5. Pruning
Pruning infested plant parts can help control gall midges by physically removing their galls, larvae, and eggs.
If you notice any galls forming on your trees, carefully prune off the affected areas and dispose of them away from your garden. This will prevent the larvae from maturing and spreading to other parts of your garden.
However, be sure to dispose of the pruned plant material by burning it or sealing it in a plastic bag and throwing it away. Do not compost these clippings, as gall midge larvae can survive and re-infest your garden.
6. Hand-Picking
In smaller gardens, hand-picking the larvae can be an effective control method.
For example, with the hibiscus gall midge, you can pick the yellow buds off the plants before they fall and dispose of them.
However, if any of the buds fall, pick them up and properly dispose of them. This DIY method will prevent the larvae from emerging from the buds and going into the soil.
7. Plough Orchards to Expose Larvae
For orchards or larger plantings, plowing the soil can expose gall midge larvae to the sun’s heat.
The larvae live in the soil during certain stages of their life cycle, and exposure to sunlight can kill them. This method is especially useful in agricultural settings where other natural methods may not be as feasible.
8. Diatomaceous Earth
Diatomaceous earth (DE) can kill flies in general, and gall midges are no exception.
Therefore, apply a light dusting of diatomaceous earth to your plants, focusing on areas where galls are present.
9. Field Maintenance and Sanitation
Good field maintenance and sanitation practices are crucial in preventing and controlling gall midge infestations.
Regularly clean up fallen leaves, fruit, and other plant debris (infested or not), as these can harbor gall midges.
10. Row Covers
For a more physical barrier against gall midges, floating row covers may help. These covers may prevent adult midges from reaching your plants to lay their eggs.
However, cover the plants before the adult midges become active and keep the covers secure until the risk of infestation has passed.
This method is especially useful for vegetable gardens that are highly susceptible to gall midge damage.
11. Plant Resistant Varieties
Some plant varieties are naturally resistant to gall midges. If gall midges are a recurring problem in your area, consider planting resistant or less susceptible varieties.
For example, certain mango and rice varieties have been bred to resist gall midge infestations [3, 4].
12. Rotate Crops
If gall midges are a recurring problem in your garden, if possible, consider practicing crop rotation. This involves planting different types of crops in a given area each year.
By moving susceptible plants to different locations, you can disrupt the life cycle of gall midges and reduce their numbers over time.
13. Pyganic Gardening
Pyganic is an organic, natural insecticide that can be effective against midges.
With pyrethrin as the active ingredient, this product targets a wide range of pests, including midges.
Apply Pyganic according to the label instructions.
Takeaway
Gall midges can be a troublesome pest, but with the right natural methods, you can control and prevent infestations.
Sticky traps, natural enemies, and good field maintenance are all effective remedies. By combining these methods, you can protect your plants from gall midge insects.
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