How Do I Get Rid Of Moths?

Question

I have several pots and plants around the house & they are getting eaten up by bugs, moths, something. I suspect it’s moths because when I water them, all these small, light brown moth-looking things fly out of them. We are surrounded by farm fields who spray their crops & my husband thinks they all come to our property because we do not. Any recommendations on what to do about them? We have always been so happy with the way our flowers look, but this year, many aren’t blooming, leaves are drying up and bugs are eating them. I am attaching pictures of my Thomas Jefferson vine, canna bulbs, sweet potato vines. Thank you.

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Answer 1

If it is moth damage it would be from their larva/caterpillars and you can turn over the leaves to check for them. If you see them you can pick them off or spray them with insecticidal soap or Neem oil. Bt is also useful for caterpillars. I may see some worms on the closeup canna leaf.

Spider mites can take over quickly and aren't noticeable till their webs are apparent. These articles should help:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/canna/managing-canna-lily-pests.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/insects/holes-in-plant-leaves.htm

Brown edges on the leaves usually indicates under or over watering or low humidity. Do you replace the soil in the containers each year? Potting soil eventually breaks down and should be replaced or at least refreshed. It also can harbor insect pests and disease from year to year.