What's eating my clary sage?

Clary sage (Salvia sclarea) is a robust biennial that rarely suffers serious pest damage. Spider mites and aphids are the most consistent threats, particularly in dry conditions. Rosemary beetle will also feed on foliage in the UK and Europe. Slugs can damage young seedlings before plants establish their tough, hairy leaves.

Fine webbing on undersides of leaves; pale stippling, yellowing, and leaf drop in hot, dry summers. Increase humidity by watering soil thoroughly; wash leaves with water; use horticultural oil or insecticidal soap if needed.

Sap-sucking insects on stems and new growth; honeydew deposits; possible sooty mould; stunted tips. Blast off with water; introduce beneficial insects (ladybirds, lacewings); insecticidal soap for heavy infestations.

Adults and larvae strip leaves and flowers from late summer through spring; metallic purple-green beetles visible on foliage. Hand-pick adults and larvae; shake plant over newspaper to collect them; insecticide only if infestation is severe.

Irregular holes in young leaves and seedlings, especially in wet conditions or heavy soils. Hand-pick at dusk; apply iron phosphate pellets; use grit mulch around young plants.