PestRoot problem

Carrot fly

Small flies whose larvae tunnel into carrots, parsnips and celery roots, leaving rusty-brown tunnels.

Also known as: Carrot rust fly, Psila rosae

Symptoms and identification

Roots have brown, rusty tunnels just under the skin, and leaves may turn reddish and wilt. Damaged roots rot in storage.

Low-flying female flies are attracted by the smell of crushed carrot foliage and lay eggs at the base of plants.

Thin in the evening and remove thinnings. Harvest early and use damaged roots promptly.

Cover crops with fine insect mesh or a 60 cm barrier, sow thinly to avoid thinning, and grow resistant varieties.

Few products are available for home gardeners; rely on barriers.