Pest identification
What's eating my astilbe simplicifolia 'sprite'?
Vine weevil (Otiorhynchus sulcatus)
Signs: Larvae eat roots and crown tissue, causing unexplained wilting and poor vigour; adults notch leaf margins overnight.
Control: Apply nematodes (Steinernema kraussei) in late summer or early autumn to moist soil above 5°C. Inspect and remove grubs when lifting or dividing plants.
Spider mites (Tetranychus urticae)
Signs: Pale, speckled foliage with fine webbing; most severe in dry, sunny sites during summer.
Control: Water plants regularly to keep humidity up. Spray undersides of leaves with insecticidal soap or neem oil; repeat twice weekly until infestation clears.
Aphids
Signs: Colonies on new stems and buds; leaves curl slightly and become sticky with honeydew that encourages sooty mould.
Control: Knock off with a water jet or apply insecticidal soap spray. Ladybird adults and larvae are effective natural predators to encourage.
Keep astilbe simplicifolia 'sprite' pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
- What eats simple-leaf astilbe — the species this cultivar belongs to
- What's wrong with my plant? — the diagnosis apps compared
- Common astilbe simplicifolia 'sprite' problems & fixes
- Astilbe simplicifolia 'Sprite' watering schedule
- Astilbe simplicifolia 'Sprite' light requirements
- Full astilbe simplicifolia 'sprite' care guide
Astilbe simplicifolia 'Sprite' pests — FAQ
What is eating my astilbe simplicifolia 'sprite'?
Astilbe simplicifolia 'Sprite' — a Perennial Plant of the Year winner — is notably deer- and rabbit-resistant. Vine weevil larvae attacking the rootstock are the primary real risk, with spider mites possible in hot dry spells. The compact habit makes it easy to monitor for early signs of trouble.
How do I get rid of vine weevil (otiorhynchus sulcatus) on astilbe simplicifolia 'sprite'?
Larvae eat roots and crown tissue, causing unexplained wilting and poor vigour; adults notch leaf margins overnight. Apply nematodes (Steinernema kraussei) in late summer or early autumn to moist soil above 5°C. Inspect and remove grubs when lifting or dividing plants.
How do I get rid of spider mites (tetranychus urticae) on astilbe simplicifolia 'sprite'?
Pale, speckled foliage with fine webbing; most severe in dry, sunny sites during summer. Water plants regularly to keep humidity up. Spray undersides of leaves with insecticidal soap or neem oil; repeat twice weekly until infestation clears.
How do I get rid of aphids on astilbe simplicifolia 'sprite'?
Colonies on new stems and buds; leaves curl slightly and become sticky with honeydew that encourages sooty mould. Knock off with a water jet or apply insecticidal soap spray. Ladybird adults and larvae are effective natural predators to encourage.