| Periodically, the leaves on my bougainvilla have holes in them (as much as half of any individual leaf gone), particularly the new growth. It looks like the work of worms but I have never been able to find any trace of any kind of pest. Any ideas on my mystery leaf eater and how to get rid of it? |
| There is a bougainvillea caterpillar (Asciodes gordialis) that can cause leaf damage during the summer months. It's difficult to control a pest that you don't see, so I wouldn't spray the plant 'just in case' a pest shows up. But, if you discover the critters munching down, you can use the botanical Bt (Bacillus thuriengensis). This product is a stomach poison so the caterpillars need to consume some before it will work. Therefore, treat only if you find the pests. Hope this helps solve the mystery! |
