Troubleshooting
Hairy Solomon's Seal problems — and how to fix them
Hairy Solomon's Seal (Polygonatum pubescens) is generally low-drama, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Solomon's seal sawfly (Phymatocera aterrima)
Larvae can completely defoliate stems within days; check plants weekly from late spring and remove caterpillars by hand at first sign, or treat with a suitable contact insecticide.
Rust (Puccinia polygonati)
Orange-brown pustules may appear on leaves in humid conditions; remove and dispose of infected foliage and avoid overhead watering to slow spread.
Prevent hairy solomon's seal problems before they start
Most hairy solomon's seal issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Hairy Solomon's Seal problems — FAQ
Why is my hairy solomon's seal solomon's seal sawfly (phymatocera aterrima)?
Larvae can completely defoliate stems within days; check plants weekly from late spring and remove caterpillars by hand at first sign, or treat with a suitable contact insecticide.
Why is my hairy solomon's seal rust (puccinia polygonati)?
Orange-brown pustules may appear on leaves in humid conditions; remove and dispose of infected foliage and avoid overhead watering to slow spread.