Leaf Miners Control

Those white curl lines are a trademark of leaf miners. Leaf miners are insect larvae (Liriomyza munda) which hatch from eggs deposited between the upper and lower surface of plant leaves. The hungry larvae munch their way around the leaf, leaving a telltale white trail or tunnel. Tunnels can provide an entry point for fungus or bacteria if the leaves are not removed.

Here are some tips for Controlling the leaf miners:

LEAF MINERS LIFE CYCLE

• Monitor plant leaves closely. At the first sign of tunneling, squeeze the leaf at the tunnel between two fingers to crush any larvae. Done soon enough, this killing larvae can allow plants to survive minor outbreaks.

• Pick off and destroy any affected leaves and leaf miner larvae.

• Grow your veggies organically, without the use of sprays or chemicals that could upset the balance of beneficial predator insects, since leaf miners can be largely controlled by natural predators.

• Keep your plants healthy and well watered, so they can recover from the infestation (and the necessary leaf-plucking).

• Keep your garden clean and free of weeds or debris that can harbor insects and diseases.

• Neem spray in regular interval may control this problem.




Sources: various internet sites and books