Pest identification
What's eating my lavandin?
Aphids
Signs: Sticky colonies on shoot tips and flower spikes; can distort emerging buds
Control: Strong water spray to dislodge; encourage natural predators; insecticidal soap if persistent
Spittlebug (froghoppers)
Signs: White frothy blobs around stem bases and leaf axils in spring
Control: Hose off with water; infestations are cosmetic; no chemical treatment typically warranted
Rosemary beetle
Signs: Iridescent beetles and grey-striped larvae defoliate stems and consume flower buds
Control: Hand-pick and destroy; shake plant over a tray at dawn; pyrethrum-based spray in severe cases
Keep lavandin pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Lavandin pests — FAQ
What is eating my lavandin?
Lavandin is highly aromatic and naturally repels many insects, but aphids and spittlebugs target new growth each spring, and rosemary beetle is an increasing problem in the UK. Ensuring sharp drainage and open air circulation is the most effective long-term pest management strategy for this vigorous hybrid.
How do I get rid of aphids on lavandin?
Sticky colonies on shoot tips and flower spikes; can distort emerging buds Strong water spray to dislodge; encourage natural predators; insecticidal soap if persistent
How do I get rid of spittlebug (froghoppers) on lavandin?
White frothy blobs around stem bases and leaf axils in spring Hose off with water; infestations are cosmetic; no chemical treatment typically warranted
How do I get rid of rosemary beetle on lavandin?
Iridescent beetles and grey-striped larvae defoliate stems and consume flower buds Hand-pick and destroy; shake plant over a tray at dawn; pyrethrum-based spray in severe cases