Pest identification
What's eating my new zealand spinach?
Aphids
Signs: Soft-bodied clusters under leaves; honeydew and sooty mold follow; leaf curl on young growth
Control: Jet of water to dislodge; insecticidal soap spray; encourage predators such as ladybugs
Slugs and snails
Signs: Holes and ragged edges in young succulent leaves, especially at night or after rain
Control: Iron phosphate pellets around plants; remove garden debris that provides daytime hiding spots; hand-pick at dusk
Caterpillars (noctuid moths)
Signs: Large irregular holes in older leaves; frass visible on leaf surfaces
Control: Hand-pick larvae; apply Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) spray; drape row cover over seedling stage
Keep new zealand spinach pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
New Zealand Spinach pests — FAQ
What is eating my new zealand spinach?
New Zealand Spinach (Tetragonia tetragonioides) is relatively pest-resistant compared to true spinach, but aphids, slugs, and leaf-chewing caterpillars can damage young plants. Birds sometimes peck seedlings. Its thick succulent leaves deter many insects, making it an easier crop to grow with minimal pest intervention.
How do I get rid of aphids on new zealand spinach?
Soft-bodied clusters under leaves; honeydew and sooty mold follow; leaf curl on young growth Jet of water to dislodge; insecticidal soap spray; encourage predators such as ladybugs
How do I get rid of slugs and snails on new zealand spinach?
Holes and ragged edges in young succulent leaves, especially at night or after rain Iron phosphate pellets around plants; remove garden debris that provides daytime hiding spots; hand-pick at dusk
How do I get rid of caterpillars (noctuid moths) on new zealand spinach?
Large irregular holes in older leaves; frass visible on leaf surfaces Hand-pick larvae; apply Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) spray; drape row cover over seedling stage