From caterpillars to disease: 7 reasons your plant leaves have holes

Finding holes in the plant's leaves can be annoying, especially if you have seen the plant just days ago and did not see any sign of trouble. Though it seems like a few tiny holes cannot pose a threat, usually they do mean that some kind of life form feeds on the plant, damages its growth, or somehow stresses it. Often, insects are those who cause damage, but there are several other reasons too. Luckily, detecting causes in time will help you deal with the trouble. Here is what you need to know regarding leaves' holes.

Insects are likely to blame

According to the University of Maryland Extension, insects should always be at the top of your list when dealing with holes in leaves. Caterpillars, beetles, grasshoppers, and numerous kinds of chewers feast on foliage at night and early in the morning. It is possible that bugs are invisible, making you see the damage only. Check the underside of leaves and examine plants in cool weather. Detecting the source of troubles early can save your plant and its leaves.

Slugs and snails eat young leaves

If the damage looks messy and like something chewed through the foliage overnight, then slugs and snails are probably guilty. They prefer moist environments and tend to feast on young and soft leaves. Slugs and snails are active mostly at night, hiding in the shade during daytime, under the pots, stones, mulches, and garden litter. You might never see pests, but still feel their presence due to the damage.

Some plant diseases can also damage leaves

Though most holes in leaves are caused by pests, sometimes it may be just a sign of fungal or bacterial infection. Some fungi create holes by forming patches that later die and fall away, leaving a 'hole' behind. Such a condition is often called 'shot-hole disease.' It tends to affect plants that do not have enough light and air circulation, such as plants growing densely.

Keep an eye on your plants

The best way to prevent any damage to your leaves in time is regular inspection of plants. Most people discover problems with their leaves after they become obvious. Checking the plants every couple of days can help you notice problems while there are few insects around. Do not ignore leaf undersides, stem parts, and newly grown leaves; they are the easiest to get hurt.

Apply natural insecticides initially

Most experienced gardeners believe that starting with natural insecticides might be a wise idea. Hand-picking insects and releasing predators and spraying plants with neem oil are among possible techniques. Using chemicals is a bit harmful to the plant and other creatures living in the garden, and might lead to chemical buildup in home conditions. However, this way is usually slower yet safer and more environmentally friendly.

Remove the affected foliage

According to the Pennington, leaves that are highly damaged usually can be rescued. Removing the foliage will make it easier to treat the plant and prevent the spread of pests or disease to other leaves. By improving the plant's general health and giving it more water, fertilizer, and sunlight, you will help it to grow new foliage. Healthier plants will be less susceptible to damage and able to cope better with pests.

Use garden hygiene to prevent damage

It might surprise you, but keeping good garden hygiene will go a long way in prevention. Removing fallen foliage, dead plants, or extra rubbish in your yard, ensuring proper plant placement, and cleaning the space regularly will greatly reduce risks of pest outbreaks and disease spread. Making your garden clean will save you lots of effort in the future.