Leaf Miners are the tiny larvae of various insects such as Flies, Sawflies, Small Moths and Beetles.
Damage
The larvae feed on leaves by tunneling between the upper and lower leaf surfaces. Feeding damage results in dead, brown, irregular patterns on the leaf. Leaf Miners are difficult to see or eliminate, as they stay completely obscured within the leaf.
Location
Leaf Miners are found throughout the United States.
Cultural Solutions
- Use row covers to keep plants protected from egg-laying adults.
- Remove infected leaves.
- Timing is key when applying any product sprays. Spray before the leaf is infected.
- Pheromone traps are available for several types of Leaf Miners (including Citrus Leaf Miner) and can help identify insect activity and timing of control measures.