These are larvae of a number of different types of insects that feed inside leaf tissue leaving pale or silver trails on leaves known as mines. A wide range of plants is affected by leaf miners including citrus, cineraria and vegetables.

Control is difficult as the pest is protected by leaf tissue. Prevention is better than cure so keep an eye on your plants as infestation usually occurs in new soft, vulnerable growth. Look for distorted leaves on new growth, especially young leaves of citrus on the underside for evidence a trail with a silvery appearance.

Citrus leaf miners (larvae of the moth) are controlled by spraying horticultural oils such as EarthCare Enviro Pest Oil insect spray, over new growth to deter females from laying eggs. The adult moths don’t like to lay their eggs on an oily and shiny surface. When spraying the foliage follow the direction on the back of the pack and spray both sides of the foliage. Repeat application maybe needed for further control. Also do not spray when beneficial insects and bees are around.

With other types of leaf miners, pick off damaged leaves and dispose of them in a bag in the garbage. There are many beneficial insects both native and introduced that attack the adult pest.

A healthy garden can also help prevent pest infestation. If your plants are strong and healthy, they may be able to handle and reduce the stress of pests and diseases. Applying Seasol regularly every two weeks during the year can help them to cope with environmental stress. Keeping plants fed with fertilisers such as PowerFeed All Purpose including Natives, better watering and appropriate light exposure can also help build tougher plants.

These are larvae of a number of different types of insects that feed inside leaf tissue leaving pale or silver trails on leaves known as mines. A wide range of plants is affected by leaf miners including citrus, cineraria and vegetables.

Control is difficult as the pest is protected by leaf tissue. Prevention is better than cure so keep an eye on your plants as infestation usually occurs in new soft, vulnerable growth. Look for distorted leaves on new growth, especially young leaves of citrus on the underside for evidence a trail with a silvery appearance.

Citrus leaf miners (larvae of the month) are controlled by spraying horticultural oils such as EarthCare Enviro Pest Oil insect spray, over new growth to deter females from laying eggs. The adult moths don’t like to lay their eggs on an oily and shiny surface. When spraying the foliage follow the direction on the back of the pack and spray both sides of the foliage. Repeat application maybe needed for further control. Also do not spray when beneficial insects and bees are around.

With other types of leaf miners, pick off damaged leaves and dispose of them in a bag in the garbage. There are many beneficial insects both native and introduced that attack the adult pest.

A healthy garden can also help prevent pest infestation. If your plants are strong and healthy, they may be able to handle and reduce the stress of pests and diseases. Applying  Seasol regularly every two weeks during the year can help them to cope with environmental stress. Keeping plants fed with fertilisers such as PowerFeed All Purpose including Natives, better watering and appropriate light exposure can also help build tougher plants.