What's eating my lavandin?

Lavandin's strong aromatic oils repel most insects, making it far less pest-prone than many garden plants. The key threats are rosemary beetle (UK) and spittlebugs. Both are rarely fatal but can damage the foliage and flowers, especially on plants weakened by poor drainage or excess nitrogen. Hand-picking and good airflow usually suffice.

Metallic-striped adults and grey larvae feed on leaves and flower spikes from late summer, stripping foliage and reducing harvest quality. Hand-pick adults and larvae into soapy water, especially in the evening. Use pyrethrum-based spray as a last resort, avoiding flower spikes to protect pollinators.

Nymphs enclosed in white frothy masses on stems suck sap, occasionally distorting soft shoot tips but rarely causing serious harm. Dislodge froth with a strong water jet. No chemical treatment normally needed on healthy, well-established plants.

Occasional soft-bodied colonies on new growth cause sticky honeydew and minor leaf curl; usually transient when plants are growing well. Encourage natural predators. Blast off with water. Insecticidal soap as a backup.