Flea beetles usually don't damage tubers, but their feeding does result in many small holes throughout leaves. These small “shot holes” can make potato plants susceptible to bacterial and fungal diseases such as Verticillium wilt and Fusarium rot.
What causes holes in the leaves of potato plants?
Large holes in potato leaves can be caused by the Colorado beetle. These beetles lay yellow eggs on the underside of your potato leaves. When the larvae hatch they are hungry and can destroy plants very quickly, causing large holes in your potato leaves.
How do you stop holes in potatoes?
Wireworm traps can be helpful. Take an ordinary potato and cut into halves or quarters for a large one. Skewer the potato and place a couple of inches (5cm) under the soil. These should attract the worms and after a fortnight or so remove them to the bin or chicken run.
What is eating the leaves of my potato plants?
Colorado Potato Beetle. The common black and yellow-striped "potato bug", a very familiar insect, is the most serious pest of potatoes. Both the adult, or beetle, and the black-spotted, red larva feed on potato leaves. Their damage can greatly reduce yield and even kill plants.
Is it normal for potatoes to have holes?
Cavities in the center of potato tubers that appear healthy on the outside are caused by a condition known as 'hollow heart'. The cavities are irregular or angular in shape and have brown edges. This is associated with rapidly growing tubers.
More useful articles on a similar topic 👇
How do you stop voles from eating potatoes?What is eating my potatoes in the garden?
