Leatherjackets, the rockers of the insect world, have faired well in our temperate winter climate, surviving the short, dark days into spring. Recent damp conditions have encouraged these little fellows closer to the surface of our garden lawns; a delicious banquet for their predators but a disaster for gardeners. Swathes of tobacco lawn are developing where fresh grass roots are being severed by the birds dining a la carte; crunchy side salad to accompany the leatherjacket protein. What a palaver at the beginning of the season, a significant development on the annual moss cull and scarifying frenzy that usually typifies the end if April!
