Leaf-Curling Insect on Weeping Holly: Get a Positive ID

Leaf-Curling Insect on Weeping Holly: Get a Positive ID

Tightly curled leaves with a small black insect glued inside indicate a leaf-mining or gall-making insect (possibly a midge, psyllid, or caterpillar). Systemic insecticides failed, likely because the insect is protected within the curled leaf.

Next Steps

1. Collect several affected leaves and take them to your county Extension office or a reputable nursery for identification.
2. Once identified, use a targeted insecticide timed to the vulnerable stage (e.g., crawler emergence).
3. Prune and destroy heavily infested branches to reduce population.

Guessing the pest wastes money and may harm beneficials. Accurate ID is essential.