Hi All
What are those black dots on eggplant tree leaves on many leaves not only one leaf as per the attached photos ?
Thx
Hello @zillah
Your eggplant appears to be suffering from a combination of chewing insect damage and the accumulation of insect droppings (frass) on the underside of the leaves. The black raised dots in the photos do not look like a typical fungal leaf spot because they appear to sit on the leaf surface rather than being embedded within the leaf tissue. The holes in the leaves further support the likelihood that caterpillars, beetles, or other leaf-chewing pests have been feeding on the plant.
For winter recovery, the most important step is to reduce stress on the plant while keeping pest pressure under control. Begin by removing the worst affected leaves and any leaves that are yellowing or heavily damaged. Check the undersides of leaves regularly for caterpillars or other insects and remove any you find by hand. A gentle application of a suitable insect control product can help if pests are still active. One option currently available from Bunnings is https://www.bunnings.com.au/ocp-40g-eco-caterpillar-killer_p0712284 , which contains Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) and specifically targets caterpillars while being much gentler on beneficial insects than broad-spectrum sprays.
As temperatures cool, eggplants naturally slow their growth, so avoid heavy feeding. Instead, apply a light dressing of a balanced vegetable fertiliser and maintain consistent but moderate watering, ensuring the soil remains moist but not waterlogged. Adding a layer of organic mulch around the base of the plant can help stabilise soil temperatures and protect the roots during colder weather. If your area experiences frost, consider covering the plant overnight with frost cloth or relocating container-grown plants to a sheltered position.
Overall, your plant still has a good chance of recovering if the pest issue is addressed promptly and the plant is protected from winter stress. With a little clean-up, regular monitoring, and gentle care through the cooler months, it should be well positioned to produce healthy new growth when warmer weather returns.
Please remember to wear personal protection such as gloves, goggles and a mask.
If you need further assistance, please let us know.
Eric
Thank you very much Eric for your help
