Leaf Miners: Cosmetic Damage and Control

"Leaf miner" covers moth, beetle, and fly larvae that tunnel within leaves, leaving twisting trails. As larvae mature, they drop to soil to pupate. Tiny adults lay eggs on leaf undersides. Damage is primarily cosmetic (problematic on hollies) but can ruin leafy vegetables like chard, lettuce, spinach.

Control

Cover soil with black plastic mulch under ornamentals so larvae can't burrow. In vegetable gardens, till between rows to expose pupae; use floating row covers on new areas to prevent adult infestation from nearby. Chemical controls are ineffective because larvae are protected by leaf membranes.