Grasshoppers
Jumping insects that chew large, ragged holes in leaves and can strip young plants, especially in dry weather.
Also known as: Short-horned grasshoppers, Locusts (swarming species)
Symptoms and identification
Large, irregular holes eaten from the leaf edges inwards, chewed stems and damaged flowers. Green or brown grasshoppers jump away when you walk past.
Causes
Grasshoppers breed in dry, grassy and uncultivated land and move into gardens when surrounding vegetation dries out. Numbers build up in hot, dry years.
Organic treatment
Hand-pick grasshoppers in the early morning when they are slow. Spray neem oil or a garlic and chilli spray to deter feeding on young plants.
Prevention
Keep nearby grass short and weeds under control. Encourage birds, lizards and frogs, and cover young crops with fine netting in dry periods.
Chemical treatment (use with care)
Rarely needed in home gardens. For severe damage, use an insecticide labelled for grasshoppers on that crop.