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Leaf Miners
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Leaf miners are pests that live inside the tissue of leaves, causing damage as they tunnel through and consume the nutritious parts. The resulting trails or markings on the leaves are distinctive indicators of leaf miner activity. These pests are not a specific bug species but rather the larvae of various insects, including moths, sawflies, flies, and beetles. Despite the different parent bugs, the leaf markings caused by leaf miners exhibit similarities.
Cause of Issue
◉ Leaf miners are caused by the larvae of insects that tunnel into leaves to feed on the plant tissue.
Symptoms
◉ The main symptom of leaf miners is the presence of lines or trails on the leaves.
◉ Since the insects reside within the leaves, they are not usually visible.
Corrective Actions
◉ Removal of affected leaves: If feasible, remove the affected leaves entirely, eliminating the bugs along with the infected foliage. Alternatively, you can crush the larvae by applying pressure where the trails are visible.
◉ Spinosad: Spinosad products, which are safe and organic, can be used to kill leaf miners. Spray the affected areas liberally with Spinosad, focusing on locations with leaf miner damage. It is important to note that the effectiveness of Spinosad may vary depending on the specific bug species involved.
◉ Neem Oil: Neem oil is a natural remedy that effectively combats various types of bugs, including leaf miners. However, it is advised to avoid using Neem oil on flowering plants, as it can leave an unpleasant taste and odor on the buds. Exercise caution when using Neem oil, as there is some evidence suggesting it may be harmful to humans.
◉ BT Spray (for moth/caterpillar infestation): If you observe evidence of moths or caterpillars in conjunction with leaf miner damage, consider using BT spray. BT, or bacillus thuringiensis, is a biological insecticide that kills larvae and prevents caterpillars from consuming leaves. It is a highly effective method of eradicating caterpillars and larvae without harming beneficial insects.
◉ Beneficial Insect Predators - Diglyphus isaea: Consider introducing Diglyphus isaea, a parasitic wasp that preys on leaf miners. These beneficial insects can be ordered online and serve as a natural pesticide to reduce leaf miner populations.
◉ Floating Row Covers: Using floating row covers can be an economical and effective solution against leaf miners. These covers physically prevent moths, flies, and beetles from accessing your plants while still allowing light penetration. They are particularly useful for smaller plants but may pose challenges when covering larger ones.
◉ Remember to consider the specific needs and circumstances of your cannabis plants when selecting a solution.
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