Morning all. SHOCK HORROR Joking to one side, one of my new clematis has got a few leaves with very small holes in them. I have searched and did find a very small number of black fly. Should I spray immediately? Only appear to be a few black fly but have made a mess of those leaves. Thanks Lorna.
Still looking, but so far the only things I can find which aredescribed as eating holes n Clematis leaves are earwigs. Perhaps the beetles are incidental rather than causal?
Thanks Palustris for reply. As I am trying to give a new look to the garden I am a bit paranoid , especially my new plants.(Can always take another 100 cuttings of fu*hsias and geraniums LOL) Will keep a watchful eye. Lorna.
Still looking, but so far in all the Clematis and pests books I have not found any mention of a leaf eating beetle (Not that means anything, I have missed the obvious frequently). If it is earwigs then you would not see them during the day, they do their dirty deeds at night. Try empty match boxes with a little dried grass and leave about 1/4 inch open. Put them round the plants, if there are earwigs they will overday in them and you can dispose of them as you will. (Rather you than me though I HATE earwigs to the point of sheer terror).
Thanks once again Palustris. I have tried looking, must admit I am not very good at "googling". I do appreciate your efforts on my behalf. Lorna.