Pest identification
What's eating my eryngium bourgatii 'picos blue'?
Aphids
Signs: Green or black aphid clusters on flower stems and bracts in summer, producing honeydew and stunting flower development.
Control: Remove with a strong water jet; apply insecticidal soap if colonies are established. Avoid high-nitrogen feeds that promote soft growth.
Slugs and snails
Signs: Slime trails and chewing on emerging spring leaves before the rosette fully hardens.
Control: Grit or sharp-sand mulch around the crown; iron phosphate pellets; hand removal at night.
Keep eryngium bourgatii 'picos blue' pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
- What eats mediterranean sea holly — the species this cultivar belongs to
- What's wrong with my plant? — the diagnosis apps compared
- Common eryngium bourgatii 'picos blue' problems & fixes
- Eryngium bourgatii 'Picos Blue' watering schedule
- Eryngium bourgatii 'Picos Blue' light requirements
- Full eryngium bourgatii 'picos blue' care guide
Eryngium bourgatii 'Picos Blue' pests — FAQ
What is eating my eryngium bourgatii 'picos blue'?
Eryngium bourgatii 'Picos Blue' is a drought-hardy Spanish sea holly with deeply cut, spiny foliage that repels most pests. Aphids are the most common problem, targeting flower stems in summer. Slugs may damage young spring growth. Deer and rabbits rarely touch it. Excellent drainage prevents the main cultural risk.
How do I get rid of aphids on eryngium bourgatii 'picos blue'?
Green or black aphid clusters on flower stems and bracts in summer, producing honeydew and stunting flower development. Remove with a strong water jet; apply insecticidal soap if colonies are established. Avoid high-nitrogen feeds that promote soft growth.
How do I get rid of slugs and snails on eryngium bourgatii 'picos blue'?
Slime trails and chewing on emerging spring leaves before the rosette fully hardens. Grit or sharp-sand mulch around the crown; iron phosphate pellets; hand removal at night.