Pest identification
What's eating my hyssop?
Aphids
Signs: Occasional colonies on new growth cause minor leaf curl and honeydew; usually self-limiting as natural predators are attracted by the flowers.
Control: Knock off with water; insecticidal soap if persistent. Aphid pressure is typically low on mature, well-grown plants.
Spittlebugs / froghoppers (Philaenus spumarius)
Signs: Frothy white masses appear on stems; sap-feeding nymphs inside cause minor distortion of soft shoot tips.
Control: Wash off with a strong jet of water. Rarely requires any further action.
Slugs and snails
Signs: Young seedlings and freshly planted transplants can be grazed at the base and killed before they establish; less of a problem on mature plants.
Control: Use ferrous phosphate pellets or set beer traps around seedlings. Water in the morning to allow soil to dry before evening slug activity.
Keep hyssop pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Hyssop pests — FAQ
What is eating my hyssop?
Hyssop is one of the most pest-resistant herbs in the garden — its volatile oils actively repel many insects and it is often used as a companion plant for that purpose. When pests do appear, aphids, mealybugs, or spittlebugs are the usual culprits, typically only on weakened plants. Slugs can attack young seedlings in damp conditions.
How do I get rid of aphids on hyssop?
Occasional colonies on new growth cause minor leaf curl and honeydew; usually self-limiting as natural predators are attracted by the flowers. Knock off with water; insecticidal soap if persistent. Aphid pressure is typically low on mature, well-grown plants.
How do I get rid of spittlebugs / froghoppers (philaenus spumarius) on hyssop?
Frothy white masses appear on stems; sap-feeding nymphs inside cause minor distortion of soft shoot tips. Wash off with a strong jet of water. Rarely requires any further action.
How do I get rid of slugs and snails on hyssop?
Young seedlings and freshly planted transplants can be grazed at the base and killed before they establish; less of a problem on mature plants. Use ferrous phosphate pellets or set beer traps around seedlings. Water in the morning to allow soil to dry before evening slug activity.