Pest identification
What's eating my fernleaf yarrow?
Aphids
Signs: Sticky, yellowed flower stems; sooty mold develops on honeydew
Control: Hose off with water; treat persistent colonies with insecticidal soap
Spittlebugs (froghoppers)
Signs: White frothy blobs on stems; nymphs feed underneath, minor impact overall
Control: Wash off foam to expose insects; healthy plants tolerate them without treatment
Powdery mildew fungus
Signs: White powdery coating on leaves, often mistaken for a pest symptom
Control: Improve spacing and airflow; remove affected stems; apply potassium bicarbonate spray
Keep fernleaf yarrow pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Fernleaf yarrow pests — FAQ
What is eating my fernleaf yarrow?
Fernleaf yarrow's aromatic ferny foliage deters deer and rabbits, making aphids and spittlebugs the primary pest concerns. Aphids cluster on flower stalks in spring and early summer. Spittlebugs produce harmless froth on stems. Good drainage and full sun keep this species thriving with minimal intervention.
How do I get rid of aphids on fernleaf yarrow?
Sticky, yellowed flower stems; sooty mold develops on honeydew Hose off with water; treat persistent colonies with insecticidal soap
How do I get rid of spittlebugs (froghoppers) on fernleaf yarrow?
White frothy blobs on stems; nymphs feed underneath, minor impact overall Wash off foam to expose insects; healthy plants tolerate them without treatment
How do I get rid of powdery mildew fungus on fernleaf yarrow?
White powdery coating on leaves, often mistaken for a pest symptom Improve spacing and airflow; remove affected stems; apply potassium bicarbonate spray