Field library

Leaf Miner

Leaf Miner

Leaf miners are harmful pests that burrow into plant leaves, feeding on the internal tissue and creating tunnels that reduce the plant’s ability to perform photosynthesis. These tunnels are visible as winding, discolored trails on the leaves, and the damage can weaken the plant, resulting in reduced growth and lower yields.

Affected Crops:

• Vegetables: Tomatoes, potatoes, okra, cabbage
• Fruits: Citrus, lemons
• Other Crops: Eggplant, soybeans, spinach

Damage:

1. Leaf Damage: Leaf miners create tunnels inside the leaves, damaging the internal structure and hindering photosynthesis.
2. Visible Marks: Affected leaves show winding, white or brown lines where the larvae have tunneled.
3. Weakened Plants: The plant’s growth slows down, and the leaves may drop prematurely, leading to weakened plants.
4. Reduced Yield: Severe infestations result in significant yield losses and lower crop quality.

Control Methods:

Agritas offers effective products for controlling leaf miners:

1. Tueric (Cyromazine 10% + Abamectin 1%)
• Cyromazine is the specialist leaf miner chemistry: it stops the larva completing its moult inside the tunnel.
• Application: Apply at the first winding trails, before the tunnels join up.
2. Abamectin 1.8%EC
• Moves into the leaf tissue and reaches the larva inside the tunnel, which a surface spray cannot.
• Application: Spray to full coverage at the first sign of mining.
3. Morwet Duo
• Lufenuron blocks the larva from completing its moult and emamectin acts on it as it feeds.
• Application: Spray on the leaves following label instructions.

Additional Tips:

• Regular Monitoring: Frequently inspect crops to detect early signs of leaf miner infestations and take immediate action.
• Natural Predators: Encourage natural enemies like parasitic wasps and predator insects to control leaf miner populations.
• Spray Schedule: Apply insecticides regularly based on pest activity and weather conditions to maintain control.

How to scout

Hold leaves up to the light and look for winding silver tunnels. Count mined leaves on 20 plants.