I am growing eggplants and the other side of the leaf is covered with some bugs.
It appears that you have Thrips. These are pesky little insects that feed on plants by puncturing and sucking up the plant juices. They are known to rest on the undersides of the leaves on plants.
Method to Control:
- The best organic method to control Thrips is Neem Oil. This comes from the Neem tree, is very effective and one of the best sprays for garden thrips control. Neem oil is a natural insecticidal chemical and causes the young thrips to not develop into an adult, and the adults to not be able to reproduce.
- Neem oil can be purchased in a small 8oz bottle. It is mixed in warm water with a few drops of mild dish soap. The directions for the solution are on the bottle for either a quart or gallon. I recommend that you use a quart spray bottle, as it is easier to get in and around your plants.
- Remember to avoid spraying during the middle of the day. Spray at dusk or dawn when other beneficial insects are least active. Coat the entire plant, including the undersides of the leaves. Repeat every other day, for a week to two weeks until the infestation is gone. Reapply every two weeks as a preventative.
- Give your eggplant a good organic fertilizer, like manure or compost to keep the plants healthy and strong to combat any nutritional drain from the Thrips.
Having pests in the garden is never easy and can be extremely frustrating! But, with a little perseverance and tenacity, they can be controlled.
1220-11.25.22-TF
