Question

Perisan Shield  

Brazilian Red Cload   Dr. Vann,

Something is (quickly) eating the leaves on my Persian Shield and Brazilian Red Cloak plants.  Of course, I've never been able to catch sight of whatever is eating them.  There's no bugs or other critters on the underside of the leaves.  I've attached a couple of pictures.  I know that's not much to go on, but is there some general remedy I can try?

Sherry S.

Answer
Sherry:

It would be most helpful to know what your pest is.  You may try searching the plant in late afternoon,evening or even early morning.  You may try even searching the mulch/soil/neighboring plants. A bit of detective work.  It may not even be an insect.  Some snails/slugs can eat leaves. Some small animals such as rabbits and squirrels can do this. I am reluctant to recommend some chemical when we don't know our enemy.  Spraying your plants for something we don't know what is can be a waste of your time and money.

There are a few "general insecticides" for leaf chewing insects.  Carbaryl (Sevin), Bacillus thuringiensis (BT, Thuricide, Dipel), or acephate (Orthene), Bifenthrin (Bug-B-Gone Maxx) are some possibilities.  The trade names are in ()and can be found at most garden centers.  Be sure to read the label completely and apply accordingly. Check with your garden center professional for advise as well.  If these plants are outside, initially, you may try draping a net over them-just in case it is a small animal rather than an insect.  I would also suggest that you contact your local county Agricultural Extension office for information.  This office is usually in the courthouse or other county buildings in the county seat.

Best Regards
Steve