Avocado tree pest/disease? (forum)

Nickknowsnothing starts with ...
Hi, I was wondering if someone could help, I'm pretty new to gardening. I'm trying to get this avo tree to grow from seed, but every so often the new foliage is cracked and damaged and shrivelled somewhat. I originally thought it was root rot, but have since moved it to a pot with much better drainage and it still seems to happen. Is there a pest I should be looking out for? It kinda looks like something is nibbling on them, but I'm yet to find anything on it. Regards

Time: 6th December 2017 8:45pm

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Fruitylicious1 says...
Hi Nick

Too much afternoon sun exposure especially during summer will sunburn young avo leaves and stems. If it's in a pot move it away from the harsh afternoon summer sun, alternatively you can install a shade clothe. Also paint the exposed stem with interior water based white paint diluted to prevent the stem from frying.
Salt from water and from over fertilizing with chemicals can also cause leaf burn. Always water adequately before and after applying fert.
Snails, rats, mites, thrips and avocado worms are the main culprits who like to feast on avocado leaves. Just spray them with insecticidal soap. Snails snack during the night so it's harder to detect. Spread baits for snails and slugs.
Happy Gardening :-)

Time: 8th December 2017 6:42am

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Original Post was last edited: 8th December 2017 6:53am

About the Author Fruitylicious1
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Nickknowsnothing says...

Pictures - Click to enlarge

Picture: 1

Time: 8th December 2017 1:16pm

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Nickknowsnothing says...
Thanks for the tips Fruitylicious1, I've put up a photo so you can have a closer look, but I think you're on-the-money with the too much midday sun idea. I had already painted the stem with &quote;sunscreen&quote; but the position the plant was in, was most definitely in too much midday sun. Appreciate the help. Nick

Time: 8th December 2017 1:27pm

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Fruitylicious1 says...
Hi Nick,
Looks like your young luscious avo leaves where ravaged by grasshoppers. They are hard to detect because they are very mobile. And even if you see them they very evasive. I've killed a few of those culprits during the past few weeks. Munching their way into my veggies and juvenile fruit tree leaves. Unfortunately there is very little you can do because of their high mobility. If you are really keen you can cover your avo with mosquito net. But, your precious gem will survive even if you don't cover them. They haven't completely defoliated the young tree though. I just crush them with my hands if i managed to catch those mongrels.
Happy Gardening :-)

Time: 10th December 2017 7:24pm

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