Pest on your Citrus trees? We’re seeing some leaf miners right now; they’ll lay eggs on the underside of leaves, and the larvae will tunnel through the foliage and consume the leaf tissue.
If the infestation is really bad, we recommend Captain Jack’s — an organic solution that’s suitable for edible plants. Apply the ready-to-use or concentrate solution in the evening when there’s little to no wind and no rain. Spray the top and underside of the leaves along with the stems. Apply every four to 10 days as needed. And if a leaf is really infested, remove it to help stop the spread.
The best way to prevent pests though? Plant properly and grow a diverse garden.
Predatory insects such as various wasps, ants, spiders, and ladybugs can combat leaf miners and other pests. To encourage such bugs, adequately space the trees for proper air flow and light, they need at least six hours of direct sun. Amend our native sandy soil with rich compost to encourage stronger roots. And maintain consistent watering.
Herbs such as Nasturtium, Fennel, and Dill are said to deter various pests. And native flowers and ornamental blooms attract various pollinators which help maintain a balanced ecosystem.