Gardeners’ Forum: “What's eating my Chinese Lanterns?”
Back to Gardeners’ ForumWhat's eating my Chinese Lanterns?
Posted by Greg M on Tuesday, July 7, 2009 9:46 PM ADTtoday I discovered what might be the most disgusting little grubs chewing through the leaves on my large patch of Physalis alkekengi (Chinese Lanterns) - clumping masses of brownish striped grubs that seem to exude a blackish oily secretion, as well as what can only be described as excrement that clings to their backs - they seem to attack leaves in large groups, starting at the edges and moving backwards and then on to the next leaf / plant. What the heck are these little buggers? I've read that Physalis pests tend to also like tomatoes, and I've got 50 heirloom tomatoes in a nearby garden; I'll defend those with my bare hands! Help, and thank you in advance! (Greater Toronto area)
re: What's eating my Chinese Lanterns?
Posted by Melissa on Wednesday, July 8, 2009 9:31 AM ADTYou're right Greg, Physallis pests would also like tomatoes and potates too, as they are all member of the Nightshade family. The beasts you are describing sound like potato beetle larvae. The organic approach to battling these pests is to have the patience to pick them off one by one and drop them into a jar of water to kill them. I know it's gross. If you are diligent and repeat this process every morning until they are gone it will be worth it.
re: What's eating my Chinese Lanterns?
Posted by mary on Sunday, September 6, 2009 9:37 AM ADTpotato beetle grubs are bright orange. 1/4 to 1/2 inch depending on their instar. Soundsmore like a lily beetle grub.
