The chicory leafminer fly is ± 9 mm in size and lays its eggs at the base of the leaf.
Chicory leafminer fly (Napomyza cichorii). This ± 9 mm large fly lays its eggs at the at the base of the leaf. The 5 mm-sized larvae dig tunnels in the crop, which withers. Later, the larvae drill holes in the head of the Belgian endive. The stalk turns brown and the plant rots away.
Where to find
Control
In professional horticulture, the presence of the chicory leafminer fly is closely monitored; if a certain number of flies are counted, control is initiated.
In the vegetable garden, remove infested leaves and roots, spray with pyrethrum if necessary.
Prevention
Insect-proof mesh keeps chicory leafminer flies away.
