Leatherjackets
Pest · Commonly affects: Lawn grass, Lettuce, Cabbage, Beans, Peas, Potato, Strawberry, Beetroot
Leatherjackets are the grey-brown larvae of crane flies, often called daddy-longlegs. They live in soil and feed mainly at night on roots and stems, causing bare patches in lawns and losses among young vegetables. They are most damaging after crane flies have laid eggs in late summer, especially in damp ground with plenty of grass or organic matter.
How to identify it
A leatherjacket is a tough, legless, grey-brown larva, usually 20-35 mm long, with a blunt rear end and no obvious head capsule. Digging under damaged turf or around wilting seedlings may reveal them curled in the soil. Lawns may show irregular yellowing patches, loose turf and bird activity. Vegetable seedlings can be severed close to ground level or pulled down when roots have been eaten.
Damage
Leatherjackets chew grass roots, producing thinning turf that lifts easily and attracts birds searching for grubs. In vegetable beds they can eat roots, seeds and stem bases, leading to missing seedlings and uneven rows. Damage is often worst in autumn and spring, when larvae are active near the surface. Small plants can be lost before the cause is noticed.
Prevention
Avoid creating very lush, damp turf in late summer, and repair bare lawn patches before crane flies are likely to lay eggs. Keep vegetable beds clear of weeds and old crop debris, and prepare soil early so grubs can be exposed to birds. Use fine mesh over freshly sown beds where crane flies are numerous. Encourage birds with water, cover and varied planting, while protecting vulnerable crops as needed.
How to manage it
Lift affected turf or carefully rake soil to expose leatherjackets for birds to take, then collect any found by hand. Water lawns beforehand only if needed to bring grubs nearer the surface, and avoid waterlogging. Biological nematodes can be applied generically in early autumn when soil is moist and larvae are small. Re-sow lost vegetable gaps promptly and protect replacements with mesh or collars.
Leatherjackets: frequently asked questions
How do I identify leatherjackets?
A leatherjacket is a tough, legless, grey-brown larva, usually 20-35 mm long, with a blunt rear end and no obvious head capsule.
How do I prevent leatherjackets?
Avoid creating very lush, damp turf in late summer, and repair bare lawn patches before crane flies are likely to lay eggs.
How do I get rid of leatherjackets?
Lift affected turf or carefully rake soil to expose leatherjackets for birds to take, then collect any found by hand.
General guidance for UK home gardens and allotments, focused on prevention and non-chemical control. For a confirmed diagnosis, the RHS or a local garden centre can help. Page updated 19 Sep 2026.