Nettle ground bug is a common true bug.
Nettle ground bug (Heterogaster urticae) is a common true bug in the family Lygaeidae. The bug is brownish-black and has a distinctive black and white pattern on the visible part of the abdomen. The bug is + 6.5 mm in size. The bugs live on the above ground parts (especially seeds) of nettles, but they can also be found on other plants. They are particularly common in the heads of crops grown in greenhouses and under glass. They puncture the buds causing flower and leaf buds to dry up.
Predatory mites are the natural enemies of the nettle bug.
The bugs overwinter among fallen leaves and nettle remains.
Where to find
- Nettles
- Vegetable- and ornamental garden (greenhouse)
Control
The damage is not visible until late (desiccation of flower buds) and then it is too late to reverse the infestation.
Prevention
For greenhouse crops, provide the windows with insect netting, this will keep the bugs out. Remove nettles.
