[Jaybees]

Hi

Can someone please help in identifying what this swirl type pattern is on leaves. I can see it on my mint and oregano plant. Not sure what to make of it, I’ve tried looking for bugs and small critters but can’t find any. Also, would appreciate if there’s anything I can do to get rid of it.

Thanks in advance
JB

[Nobbie]

Looks like some sort of leaf miner. No idea how to treat it though.

Here you go

https://www.smartgardener.com/plants/2365-mint-spearmint/pests/775-leafminers

[Jaybees]

Thanks very much for pointing out it’s a leaf miner. I wonder if can use neem oil and dishwasher soap spray to get rid of it?

Cheers
JB

[Subversive_plot]

"Leaf miners" is the correct answer, but that really describes several different insects that have the same feeding behavior, some are not at all related insects!  For example, certain moths and sawflies.

You can try the neem / soap.
Also effective are Spinosad and Bacillus thuringiensis (biologicals, based on bacteria, safe to humans) though the miners have to ingest these at the right time to be most effective.

As an added step, if just a few leaves are affected, remove and destroy the leaf.

[Jaybees]

Thanks, I’ve removed the affected leaves and got rid of them. Will checkout the sprays recommended but until then will use neem oil spray as I already use them for my other veggies.

Cheers
JB