Leaf Miner Damage on Sarracenia in Costa Rica

Marco in Costa Rica grows Sarracenia 4 years. This year, 'Daina's Delight' shows ugly bleaching, purple spots on leaves; new leaves emerge ok but degrade. Spreading to other 'Daina's' and some leucophylla. Asks cause.

Expert Diagnosis: Leaf Miners

Jeff Dallas: Looks like leaf miners (fly larvae in leaf tissue)—common on beets/chard. Hold pitcher to sun; look for dark larva shape in spots. Never seen on Sarracenia but possible in tropics. Could be other pest, but appears insect damage.

Treatment

1. Cut off all affected leaves, destroy (burn ideal).
2. Spray all plants (healthy too) with systemic insecticide: imidacloprid or acephate (Orthene)—safe on Sarracenia. Follow label.

Curious: How do Sarracenia go dormant in Costa Rica? Seasonal die-off?

Good Growing!

Jeff Dallas
Sarracenia Northwest
www.cobraplant.com