How to Get Rid of Flies in Amaryllises

Amaryllises are beautiful blooming bulbs that have a few common pests. One such pest is a fly called the narcissus bulb fly (Merodon spp.). It lays its eggs inside the bulb, which the larvae feed on, severely damaging and eventually killing the plant in the process. Bulb flies, as they are commonly called, look like small bumble bees, but these flies are not very helpful in the garden. In fact, they wreak havoc on not just amaryllises, but other plants such as daffodils, lilies and hyacinths as well. Bulb flies are not successfully controlled with pesticides so you must get rid of them with alternative methods. Incorporate several methods for the best control.

Insect net
Fly swatter
Flower cover

Instructions

- 1
  Catch the bulb flies in a butterfly or similar net, and kill them by swatting them with a fly swatter or stepping on them. This prevents the flies from hatching any more eggs.
- 2
  Cover your amaryllises after blooming with a lightweight polyester flower cover. This prevents the flies from smelling and finding the bulbs.
- 3
  Transplant or move your amaryllises to an open, windy area where bulb flies are less likely to be present.
- 4
  Throw out damaged bulbs before the flies do damage to your other amaryllises and nearby bulbs that they favor. Damaged bulbs are rotted or squishy, starting at the bottom. Always check the bulbs before storing them indoors for the winter.
- 5
  Soak maggot infested bulbs before damage occurs in 100 degree Fahrenheit water. Soak for 40 or more minutes to kill the maggots. Replant afterwards.

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