Holly Leafminer

Leafminers are the larvae of small flies called midges. The adult female makes small slits in lower leaf surfaces and lays eggs in the spring. The larvae hatch and then feed inside the leaf creating winding, serpentine tunnels. The larvae pupate in the winter or early spring and emerge as adults to continue the cycle. The adults also feed on leaves producing small dimple-like scars.

Control: Handpick and destroy infested leaves. Insecticides are available.