Knowledgebase

Tree leaves have holes #795368

Asked June 10, 2022, 8:56 PM EDT

Can you help us identify the probable pest that is chewing tiny holes in the leaves of our alder tree? Brown spots develop around the holes and then entire leaves turn brown and are falling off, as we speak. We live in south part of Aurora, near Nine Mile Station. We are not seeing the bugs. Images on google for alder beetle and for Japanese beetle damage don't appear exactly like our damage. Not skeletonized....at least not yet!!! See attached image We would appreciate any advice. You can call me on cell at<personal data hidden> if it is easier than writing me. Sincerely, Julie Dunsmore

Arapahoe County Colorado

Expert Response

Hi Julie -

It appears that your tree is hosting alder leaf miners (Fenusa dohrnii). It is a native species. While the leaves turn brown and the appearance of the tree is affected, plant health is not affected to any extent.

Please look at Fact Sheet5.548 Leafmining Insects available at extension.colostate.edu.

Thanks!
Arapahoe County Extension Replied June 11, 2022, 2:41 PM EDT

Loading ...