What's eating my echinops ritro?

Echinops ritro (globe thistle) is remarkably pest-resistant thanks to its spiny foliage and bitter sap. Aphids are the most likely problem, clustering on soft new stems in late spring. Earwigs occasionally chew flower heads. Deer and rabbits typically leave it alone. Keeping plants stress-free is usually enough prevention.

Colonies of green or black aphids cluster on emerging stems and flower stalks, causing distorted growth and sticky honeydew residue. Knock off with a strong jet of water; encourage ladybugs and lacewings. Use insecticidal soap spray for heavy infestations.

Ragged holes chewed into globe flower heads and nearby leaves, mainly overnight. Most noticeable as buds open. Set rolled-newspaper or straw-filled traps near the plant overnight and dispose of them in the morning. Encourage natural predators.

Irregular silvery-trailed holes on young basal leaves in spring before spiny foliage hardens off. Apply wildlife-safe iron phosphate pellets around new growth; remove by hand after dark. Good drainage reduces shelter for slugs.