Pest identification
What's eating my king george aster?
Aphids
Signs: Soft colonies on shoot tips; distorted growth and honeydew deposits attracting ants
Control: Blast off with water; insecticidal soap; encourage natural predators
Aster lace bug
Signs: Pale stippling on upper leaf surface; dark spots on undersides; weakened plant going into flower
Control: Neem oil spray targeting undersides; remove worst-affected leaves; improve airflow
Slugs and snails
Signs: Irregular holes in basal leaves and emerging shoots; slime trails overnight
Control: Iron phosphate pellets; barriers of grit or copper; night patrols with a torch
Keep king george aster pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
King George aster pests — FAQ
What is eating my king george aster?
King George aster, a classic violet-blue cultivar of Aster amellus, is susceptible to aphids and aster lace bugs through summer, plus slugs in cooler, wetter UK conditions. Its relatively compact habit and good air circulation reduce mildew risk. Deer and rabbits may graze it opportunistically in open gardens.
How do I get rid of aphids on king george aster?
Soft colonies on shoot tips; distorted growth and honeydew deposits attracting ants Blast off with water; insecticidal soap; encourage natural predators
How do I get rid of aster lace bug on king george aster?
Pale stippling on upper leaf surface; dark spots on undersides; weakened plant going into flower Neem oil spray targeting undersides; remove worst-affected leaves; improve airflow
How do I get rid of slugs and snails on king george aster?
Irregular holes in basal leaves and emerging shoots; slime trails overnight Iron phosphate pellets; barriers of grit or copper; night patrols with a torch