What's eating my lanceleaf coreopsis?

Lanceleaf Coreopsis is a low-maintenance native wildflower largely ignored by deer and rabbits. Aphids are the most frequent visitor in spring. Aster leafminers occasionally leave pale trails in leaves. Spider mites can appear in hot drought conditions. Healthy, well-drained plantings rarely need any pest treatment.

Colonies on shoot tips and underside of leaves in spring; honeydew residue; mild leaf distortion on new growth. Dislodge with a strong water spray. Insecticidal soap handles persistent infestations. Natural enemies (ladybirds, hoverfly larvae) are usually sufficient in established borders.

Pale, winding mines or blotchy tracks visible inside leaves; cosmetic but rarely plant-threatening. Remove affected leaves and discard. Avoid routine broad-spectrum sprays that destroy parasitic wasp predators which naturally control miners.

Pale stippling and slight bronzing of leaves; webbing in severe cases during high summer drought. Keep plants watered during dry spells. Spray leaf undersides with insecticidal soap or neem oil every 5–7 days if needed.