GURU GARDENERS — PLANT DOCTOR
Match the feeding insect to the damage

What this suggests
Seeing an insect feed is stronger evidence than finding an insect near a hole. Caterpillars and beetles need different controls.

Confirm the clues
• Photograph the animal and the leaf it is feeding on.
• Check whether a few holes are cosmetic or seedlings are losing substantial foliage.

What to do now
1. Identify the feeder before removing or treating it; some are valued butterfly larvae.
2. Use targeted protection or hand removal where appropriate for the identified pest and crop.

Hold off on
Do not spray every insect on a damaged plant. Pollinators and predators may be nearby.

What to watch for
Mark or photograph a leaf and check for fresh loss over the next few days.

Read more
https://gurugardeners.com/guides/pollinator-garden
Minnesota Extension · Identify a garden insect: https://apps.extension.umn.edu/garden/diagnose/insect/

A guided check, not a confirmed diagnosis. Seek plant-specific help if symptoms worsen.
https://gurugardeners.com/plant-doctor