What's eating my iris virginica?

Virginia blue flag (Iris virginica) is most damaged by iris borer, whose caterpillars tunnel rhizomes causing collapse and rot. Iris sawfly shreds foliage in late spring. Deer and white-tailed animals browse new shoots, and aphids build colonies on flower stems in warmer months.

Larva mines leaf midribs then destroys rhizomes; infected crowns turn mushy and foul-smelling Clear all dead foliage in autumn to eliminate eggs. Apply beneficial nematodes in spring; surgically remove and destroy infected rhizomes.

Larvae notch and shred leaf edges, leaving ragged foliage Hand-pick larvae in late spring; destroy egg masses along leaf edges before they hatch.

Foliage and flower stalks browsed or torn, especially on newly established plants Use deer repellent sprays on surrounding plants; install fencing or motion-activated deterrents where deer pressure is high.

Sticky honeydew deposits; yellow, curled stem tips and flower stalks Strong water jet to dislodge; insecticidal soap spray. Attract lacewings and ladybirds to the garden.