Growing citrus trees in pots

Question

I live in San Diego, about 5 blocks from the water (if that makes any difference). In early May I purchased a dwarf Meyer lemon and Baja lime tree and have them each growing in 18″ pots, with drainage. A few months ago, I noticed a silvery appearance on the underside of the new leaves and promptly took a sample into the garden shop where I purchased them to ask what was happening. I have come to know the garden expert on succulents and citrus and spoke to him directly. He told me it was “leaf miner,” which is very commonly found to attack citrus trees. He said there’s not much one can to to prevent or treat it (as topical sprays are ineffective) and it will only infest the tender young leaves, not the older thick leaves, and that I can remove the affected leaves if I want to, or just ignore it and that they will go away when our weather gets cold (nights at 40 degrees or below.).

This is San Diego and it NEVER drops that low on the coast. It’s mid-October and we are still having temps in the 90’s! I removed the damaged leaves in the hope of stopping the spread and now that I see new growth. I am watching for their return, which I am noticing signs of. A good deal of the leaves have gotten big enough to withstand the attack, but the baby leaves have the dreaded “miner” so I am plucking them off, and my little trees look like a 5 year old who gave himself a haircut! Do you have any suggestions?

Answer 1

I would suggest using Neem Oil to treat the plants.
Neem Oil is organic and safe for people, pets and bees!

These articles have more information for you.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/insects/leaf-miner-control.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/lime/problems-lime-trees.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/pesticides/neem-oil-uses.htm