University of Maryland Extension

Holly berry Gall Midge - Trees and Shrubs

unripe berries

Key Points

  • Holly berry gall midge causes berries of holly to remain green during the fall and winter.
  • The adult midge lays eggs in the young fruit of hollies while the petals are still present.
  • The maggots hatch and feed inside the developing fruit. The berries grow to near normal size but remain green.

Management

  • There are no chemical controls.
  • Early blooming trees are more likely to be attacked.
  • There are resistant cultivars available. Check with your local nursery for cultivars in your area.

hollyberry midge adulthollyberry normal and infested
Holly berry midge adult                           Normal holly berry and infested berry


 

Rev. 2020

Section: 
Home and Garden Information Center
We embody the University's land-grant mission with a commitment to eliminate hunger, preserve our natural resources, improve quality of life, and empower the next generation through world-class education.
Maintained by the IET Department of the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources. © 2020. Web Accessibility

University programs, activities, and facilities are available to all without regard to race, color, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, age, national origin, political affiliation, physical or mental disability, religion, protected veteran status, genetic information, personal appearance, or any other legally protected class. If you need a reasonable accommodation to participate in any event or activity, please contact your local University of Maryland Extension Office.