JTGJr25

I was checking the roots of my small Zelkova today to see the progress of the newly transformed nebari when I noticed some of these small grubs close to the trunk. It was just repotted this Spring and I did major root work to develope a better nebari. I have added organic fertilizer pellets I'm not sure if that has anything to do with it.

The health of the tree is good as far as I can see. An emergency re-pot may be detrimental to its health because of the extensive root work done. Do you think this is a big issue and what methods are there of getting rid of them? I've never had this problem before.


Tom

Phil

Hmm...from the flat end of them they look more like maggots! Fly larvae.

~Phil

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JTGJr25

Ok, if thats true is it something I need to worry about?

Tom

treebeard55

Fly maggots, if I understand correctly, feed on animal material; so it would be something in the fertilizer attracting them (like blood components.) I don't think they'd do any damage except by tunneling, if they do that.

But my best suggestion: take a couple of them to your local Cooperative Extension office and show them to the Agriculture Educator. He/she should be able to identify them, or steer you to someone who can.

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JTGJr25

Thanks treebeard. I'll take some two my local nursery, they are normally good at identifying pests.

Tom

Kansai

It's hard to tell, of course, but my first impression is that you have very young slugs there in your palm. I don't know if they're a danger to zelkova or not, but they're definitely worth getting rid of. Maybe a light sprinkle of snail/slug/pill bug bait the next time you water.

DR

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JTGJr25

I'm not sure if they are slugs because they have a head that resembles an insect. I'll swing by home depot today and see if they have anything. Do you have a brand name or something? I'm not sure exactly what to look for.

Tom

Phil

Definitely not a slug. I still say its some species of fly larvae but which one I have no idea. The flat end is reminiscent of maggots but not that of slugs. Also, they are missing the two protuberances that are on the head of a slug and are even seen on very young slugs. I've enclosed a picture of "baby" slugs and also one of maggots. On the maggots (right picture "Blowflies") you can notice the flat end.

~Phil

Attached Images

	Baby slugs.jpg (13.1 KB, 5 views)
	blow fly larvae.JPG (73.9 KB, 6 views)

__________________

Please, always keep in mind that the typewritten word does not always convey what you wish to say, and to always treat others as you would have them treat you. Think twice-submit once.
I started out with nothing....and still have most of it.
"Its hell out there, give them hell back." ~ Prowler/Victor Gray 12/31/1943 - 11/24/2008

JTGJr25

I am almost 100% sure it is a fly maggot and they are feeding off my organic fertilizer. I'm sure they are only there for that reason and will fly away once finished there larvae phase, if there are anymore because I looked and couldn't find any. I'll still check out what home depot has to get rid of them.

Tom

anttal63

make sure it is not the start of beatle larvae.

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