What's eating my joe-pye weed?

Joe-Pye Weed is a tall native perennial that is largely pest-tolerant. Aphids colonise stems in mid-summer and caterpillars of specialist moths feed on foliage. Deer browse the lush growth readily, especially in suburban gardens. Powdery mildew in crowded conditions rivals pest damage. Overall it is a robust plant that requires minimal intervention.

Green or black colonies on stem tips and undersides of upper leaves; honeydew attracts ants and sooty mould Insecticidal soap spray; encourage ladybirds and lacewings; strong water jet dislodges early-stage infestations

Irregular holes in leaves or tunnelling damage at stem bases causing wilting of individual stalks Inspect stems for entry holes; cut out and destroy affected stems; Bt spray for leaf-feeding caterpillars

Tall stems browsed down, especially fresh growth in spring and early summer before foliage toughens Deer-proof fencing; motion-activated deterrents; apply deer repellent spray around the perimeter after rain