What's eating my bluejoint reedgrass?

Bluejoint reedgrass (Calamagrostis canadensis) is a native wetland grass that supports specialist insects but rarely suffers damaging infestations. Aphids and leafhoppers are the most frequent visitors. In damp sites, slugs attack young growth. Deer and rabbits will occasionally browse it in areas with high wildlife pressure. Overall, it is one of the most pest-resilient grasses for moist gardens.

Colonies on new growth in spring and early summer; honeydew and sooty mold on lower leaves Water jet or insecticidal soap; natural enemies (lacewings, parasitoid wasps) thrive in native plantings and control populations well

Pale stippling or bleaching along leaf blades; small insects jump readily when foliage is disturbed Generally tolerate — damage is aesthetic; reduce dense planting pressure; targeted pyrethrin spray only for heavy infestations

Ragged holes in young shoots, especially in the damp or boggy conditions this grass prefers; slime trails present Iron phosphate pellets in spring when shoots emerge; improve drainage where possible; reduce mulch depth around crowns