Pest identification
What's eating my russian tarragon?
Aphids
Signs: Clusters of small soft insects on shoot tips and flower buds; leaves curl and distort; honeydew residue present.
Control: Strong water jet to dislodge colonies; insecticidal soap spray; plant near companion plants like chives or marigolds to attract predatory insects.
Two-spotted spider mite (Tetranychus urticae)
Signs: Pale stippling or bronzing across leaf surfaces in hot dry weather; fine webbing on undersides; plant looks dusty or bleached.
Control: Increase humidity and mist foliage; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; avoid water stress which makes plants more susceptible.
Caterpillars (various moth larvae)
Signs: Irregular holes eaten in leaves; frass present; damage is usually minor and cosmetic.
Control: Hand-pick caterpillars; apply Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) for larger infestations; row covers in early season.
Keep russian tarragon pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
- What eats french tarragon — the species this cultivar belongs to
- What eats russian tarragon — our other guide for the same plant
- What's wrong with my plant? — the diagnosis apps compared
- Common russian tarragon problems & fixes
- Russian Tarragon watering schedule
- Russian Tarragon light requirements
- Full russian tarragon care guide
Russian Tarragon pests — FAQ
What is eating my russian tarragon?
Russian tarragon is generally tough and aromatic enough to deter most pests. Aphids are the most common visitor, clustering on soft new tips. Spider mites can strike in hot, dry conditions, causing speckled foliage. Powdery mildew (a fungal issue) is often mistaken for pest damage. Pest pressure overall is low.
How do I get rid of aphids on russian tarragon?
Clusters of small soft insects on shoot tips and flower buds; leaves curl and distort; honeydew residue present. Strong water jet to dislodge colonies; insecticidal soap spray; plant near companion plants like chives or marigolds to attract predatory insects.
How do I get rid of two-spotted spider mite (tetranychus urticae) on russian tarragon?
Pale stippling or bronzing across leaf surfaces in hot dry weather; fine webbing on undersides; plant looks dusty or bleached. Increase humidity and mist foliage; spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap; avoid water stress which makes plants more susceptible.
How do I get rid of caterpillars (various moth larvae) on russian tarragon?
Irregular holes eaten in leaves; frass present; damage is usually minor and cosmetic. Hand-pick caterpillars; apply Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) for larger infestations; row covers in early season.