Pest identification
What's eating my narcissus 'hawera'?
Narcissus bulb fly (Merodon equestris)
Signs: Hollow, decayed bulbs; larvae consume the central shoot leaving the outer scales intact.
Control: Tread soil firm after foliage yellows; cover with insect-proof mesh May–June when adult flies are active.
Slugs and snails
Signs: Irregular grazing on tender shoots as they push through the soil in early spring.
Control: Scatter iron phosphate pellets; set beer traps nearby; remove garden debris that provides daytime hiding spots.
Aphids
Signs: Curling or stunted flower stems; sticky honeydew attracting sooty mould.
Control: Apply insecticidal soap weekly until colonies clear; encourage ladybird adults and lacewing larvae.
Keep narcissus 'hawera' pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Narcissus 'Hawera' pests — FAQ
What is eating my narcissus 'hawera'?
Narcissus 'Hawera' is a petite Triandrus hybrid naturally protected by lycorine alkaloids that repel deer, rabbits, and squirrels. Narcissus bulb fly is the most serious threat, tunneling into bulbs. Slugs target delicate emerging shoots, and aphids can cluster on slender stems during warm springs.
How do I get rid of narcissus bulb fly (merodon equestris) on narcissus 'hawera'?
Hollow, decayed bulbs; larvae consume the central shoot leaving the outer scales intact. Tread soil firm after foliage yellows; cover with insect-proof mesh May–June when adult flies are active.
How do I get rid of slugs and snails on narcissus 'hawera'?
Irregular grazing on tender shoots as they push through the soil in early spring. Scatter iron phosphate pellets; set beer traps nearby; remove garden debris that provides daytime hiding spots.
How do I get rid of aphids on narcissus 'hawera'?
Curling or stunted flower stems; sticky honeydew attracting sooty mould. Apply insecticidal soap weekly until colonies clear; encourage ladybird adults and lacewing larvae.