Gardener’s Helpdesk : What can I do about grasshoppers nibbling everything? 

Grasshoppers are at their most damaging in summer and can quickly munch through citrus foliage, leaves of veggies like corn and beans, herbs such as basil and mint, and even roses and hibiscus bushes. To tackle them, try handpicking early in the morning when they’re slow and sluggish. Gently pluck them off and drop them into soapy water. For larger infestations, an organic spray like pyrethrum can be effective – target only the grasshoppers as broad spraying may kill other insects. Consider protecting your most precious plants by covering them with pest-exclusion netting. This creates a physical barrier that grasshoppers can’t breach.