Knowledgebase

damage to Engleman Ivy leaves #809765

Asked September 06, 2022, 8:15 PM EDT

I have grown Engleman ivy quite successfully in my back yard (Westminster, CO) for several years.  This year the ivy has grown well and sustained itself, and I have seen many flying insets around the plants (pollinating?).  However, I have also seen, more than previously, damage to the leaves, presumably caused by insects (see photo).  I am reluctant to spray the leaves with anything in case it is harmful to the ivy.  Have you any solutions?

Adams County Colorado

Expert Response

First I would like a little more information.  Is the plant showing signs of any yellowing anywhere on the leaves?  Do you see any signs of webbing, lacey looking, or mildew anywhere?  Most pesticides can be safely used on ivy if you use them according to label instructions.  I will do further research and get back to you.    

Adams County Master Gardener Replied September 08, 2022, 2:26 PM EDT
Not sure what you mean by webbing, but here are more shots of the damage:

imageimageimage

On Sep 8, 2022, at 12:26 PM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:

The Question Asker Replied September 09, 2022, 12:58 PM EDT

hello again

you mentioned  noticing "insects"  and the leaf damage resembles what japanese beetle would do...  do you know if there have been reports of JB in your area?



ROSES, marigolds, zinnias, corn silks, hollyhocks, ivy. You name it; Japanese beetles eat it. These insects use their voracious appetites to gulp succulent rose petals in big bites or skeletonize leaves into lacy patterns.

Adams County Master Gardener Replied September 13, 2022, 2:38 PM EDT
I have just queried the City Forester of Westminster, and he says there have definitely been JB in our area.  From what he sent me, it looks like they are responsible for the damage on my property.

Chris 

On Sep 13, 2022, at 12:38 PM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:

The Question Asker Replied September 14, 2022, 6:13 PM EDT
That is unfortunate. I am sending a fact sheet with some ideas on how to fight them. Hope this helps. If you have more questions please feel free to reach out. 

Adams County Master Gardeners
9755 Henderson Road
Brighton, CO 80601 
<personal data hidden>


On Wed, Sep 14, 2022 at 4:13 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
Adams County Master Gardener Replied September 15, 2022, 3:18 PM EDT

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