Gooseberry Sawfly Larvae - OUT NOW!

[Multiveg]

Need I say more than just vigilance and picking the critters off?

[oldherbaceous]

Thanks for the timely reminder Multiveg, will keep a look out for them.

[Chantal]

What do they look like?

[Primrose]

Thanks for the warning. Can't believe the little blighters are here already but they completely wrecked my gooseberry bushes last year so I'll be out there tomorrow morning ready to do battle. What do other people use to combat them? In the past I've used a Derris powder but it seems to be an awfully messy & unsightly way of dealing with the problem and gets washed off in the first rain shower. Perhaps a jam jar full of some nasty liquid would be a better solution?

[Johnboy]

Hi Primrose,
One of the best ways I have used is to very carefully and without touching the plant spread a sheet of polythene on the ground beneath the bush. When it is in place you tap the bush vigorously and the little buggers drop to the ground but in your case the polythene. Squishing at times is very satisfying!!
JB.