Sawflies are a group of insects suborder (Symphyta) of the Hymenoptera (bees, ants and wasps). There are about 500 species of

Sawfly are small winged insects, related to bees, wasps and ants. Their caterpillar-like larvae feed on the leaves or fruits of certain plants, including apples, gooseberries and Solomen’s seal.

The variety of living organisms (plants, animals, fungi and microorganisms) in a particular environment. Boosting the biodiversity of your garden has many benefits, including supporting wildlife, improving soil health and reducing the likelihood of pest and disease problems.

biodiversity

Geum sawfly larvae initially feed concealed between the folds of unexpanded leaves. As they grow they consume large irregular holes and damage can occur very quickly and defoliation can be extensive. Signs of geum sawflies include:

• Pale green caterpillar-like larvae with small whitish spikes up to 15 mm long
• Leaves can be reduced to a network of the larger leaf veins, affecting the appearance and vigour of  plants
• Affected plants often recover with no long term effects

Sawflies are a part of the biodiversity a healthy garden supports.

• Where possible tolerate populations of geum sawfly; Geum can cope with low numbers of larvae, plants usually recover from defoliation
• Encourage predators and other natural enemies of sawfly in the garden, such as birds, wasps and ground beetles
• Check plants regularly in May and June for the presence of larvae to prevent a damaging population developing
• Remove by hand if required and where practical

The larvae of geum sawflies (Claremontia waldheimii and Monophadnoides rubi) feed on the foliage of cultivated and wild Geum species.

There is one generation a year with larvae active during late May and June. They initially feed concealed between the folds of unexpanded leaves. The larvae of both species are pale green with rows of bifurcated (divided into two) whitish spines on the dorsal surface. When fully grown, in late June, they go into the soil where they spin silk cocoons, where they overwinter. The adults are 5-6 mm in length, black in colour and emerge between late April and early June.