Insect: Is it a Pest?

Discussion in 'Plant Pests, Diseases and Weeds' started by SeanLI, Jun 9, 2021.

  1. SeanLI

    SeanLI Seedling

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    I noticed a winged beast on my romaine lettuce this AM. He appeared to be sleeping.

    Is he something to worry about? Or might he even be beneficial, feeding on my aphid plague?

    Thanks in advance for any responses!

    PS - if this is a parasitic wasp, will Neem Oil hurt these guys?

    EDIT: Zone 7B; Long Island, NY
     

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    Last edited: Jun 9, 2021
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  3. mart

    mart Strong Ash

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    Many types of wasps do feed on aphids ! Not sure of what type this one is but I would leave him alone !
     
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  4. eileen

    eileen Resident Taxonomist Staff Member Moderator Plants Contributor

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    :fingerscrossed: That it's a parasitic wasp and your lettuce will be fine. :)
     
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  5. SeanLI

    SeanLI Seedling

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    Thanks, gang! I was hoping he was a helpful wasp.

    Side query: will Neem Oil hurt these guys?
     



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  6. eileen

    eileen Resident Taxonomist Staff Member Moderator Plants Contributor

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    As far as I'm aware Neem oil Will harm parasitic wasps Sean.
     
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  7. Odif

    Odif Young Pine

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    Ask sh. Neem oil stinks. I don’t use it. Pests often come when you plant at the wrong time or the wrong plants for your region.
     
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  8. mart

    mart Strong Ash

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    Try this first,, mix a quart of water with a tablespoon of dish soap and a teaspoon of plain old peroxide ! Spray with that and repeat in 3 or 4 days ! Be sure and get the leaves covered front and back ! Let me know if it works for you !
     
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  9. carolyn

    carolyn Strong Ash

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    Thank you Odif.. I am not a fan of neem oil either. It's mechanism of working is NOT what people expect to see. it interferes with the reproduction cycle. it does not kill insects as most people want it to do.
     
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  10. SeanLI

    SeanLI Seedling

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    Thanks for your responses. I will try the peroxide Neem alternative that was reommended.
     
  11. Odif

    Odif Young Pine

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    Carolyn, my issue with neem is the “collateral damage” to creatures that I want in my garden.
     
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  12. MaxxyD

    MaxxyD New Seed

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    It's always concerning to see an insect on your produce, but it's possible that it could actually be beneficial to your garden. Do you have a picture of the insect?? It might help to identify whether or not it's a pest. As for using neem oil, it's always important to read the label carefully to see if it is safe for beneficial insects.
     
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