DESCRIPTION
The first signs of Mangold Fly or Beet Leaf Miner will be large light brown blisters on the leaves. These are caused by the maggots of the mangold fly literally tunnelling their way through the leaves. 

The leaves eventually turn completely brown and drop off. Not surprisingly, the growth of the plant is stunted.

The most damaging time is when the plants are young.  

TREATMENT
Break the mangold fly's lifecycle at two  points. When any signs are noted, gently loosen the soil surrounding the plants with a trowel or hoe. This will expose the pupae to birds who love to eat them.

The second action is to remove any affected leaves immediately the damage is noted. It is possible to spray with strong chemicals but this is not recommended on health grounds.

GO TO THE GARDEN PEST AND DISEASE MAIN PAGE FOR
PESTS AND DISEASES CLASSIFIED BY PLANT