Leaves Bit Off at Stem

Question

My sweet peppers are being defoliated at the stem. There is a clear bite wound that leaves a forked split (like a snake’s tongue) at the stem. I sprayed with Malathion, but the defoliation is spreading to other plants.

Answer 1

It may be rodents. They may be looking to eat small fruit and blossoms and are removing the leaves to make access easier. This article may help:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/animals/garden-mouse-control.htm