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Bugs in Polytunnel - what are these eggs off my Aubergines?

#1 · 28th May 2025, 1:51 pm

hello I have had an allotment for a few years, asked a few friends who are equally baffled.
I have brown seed like ‘creatures’ inside my Polytunnel .

It looks like a husk , cast, under magnifying glass looks ridged. It is smaller than a flax seed, similar shape.
Is it an egg? Can’t see a bug, but something is leaving holes on aubergine leaves.
Please help if you know what it is and how to get rid of it as naturally as possible.

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#2 · 29th May 2025, 11:31 am

Hi @chattermag

How strange, I've often found weird and wonderful bug and insect shells, larvae and 'castings' in my own greenhouses over the years. I would suspect they are fly 'casts' or pupae. The best way to check, but gross I know, is to put them in a small Tupperware and watch them, they will hatch within a week if so. Then, when you can see the adults, you can find out what grub or worm is attacking your abergines!

With all my pest advice, finding natural solutions is best, and in some cases, I opt just to let whatever damage the plant as it's part of the food chain in our gardens. However, I know sometimes you need to do something. Sometimes sticky fly traps are the least harm on the environment.

Do let me - and the other Ninjas- know how you get on!

All the best

Lee Garden Ninja