Identifying and Controlling Leaf-Eating Pests on Persian Shield and Brazilian Red Cloak

Something is devouring the leaves of your Persian Shield and Brazilian Red Cloak plants, but you've never caught the culprit. No insects are visible on the leaf undersides, and the damage is spreading fast. Here's how to track down the pest and choose the right treatment.

Do Some Detective Work First

Before spraying anything, identify the pest. Many leaf-chewers are nocturnal or hide in mulch and soil during the day. Inspect plants at dusk, early morning, or with a flashlight at night. Check the soil surface, mulch, and neighboring plants. The damage might not even be from an insect—slugs, snails, rabbits, or squirrels can also strip foliage.

General Treatments for Chewing Insects

If you confirm an insect problem, several broad-spectrum options are available at garden centers:

• Carbaryl (Sevin) – effective on many beetles and caterpillars
• Bacillus thuringiensis (BT, Thuricide, Dipel) – targets caterpillars only, safe for beneficials
• Acephate (Orthene) – systemic, works on a wide range of chewing and sucking insects
• Bifenthrin (Bug-B-Gone Maxx) – pyrethroid with residual activity

Always read and follow label directions exactly. Consult your local garden center professional for advice tailored to your area.

Non-Chemical First Steps

Drape fine netting over the plants to exclude small animals. If the damage stops, you've found your answer. Also, contact your county Agricultural Extension office—they can help identify the pest and recommend the most effective, least toxic control for your region.

Spraying blindly wastes time, money, and can harm beneficial insects. A little investigation goes a long way.