Pest identification
What's eating my mugwort?
Aphids
Signs: Small colonies on new growth cause slight leaf distortion and honeydew; rarely reach damaging levels given the plant's vigour
Control: Knock off with a water jet; natural predators (ladybirds, lacewings) usually keep numbers low
Leaf beetles
Signs: Small, irregular feeding holes or skeletonised patches on leaves
Control: Hand-pick adults and larvae; pyrethrum spray for significant infestations; plant vigour usually outpaces damage
Spider mites
Signs: Pale stippling and fine webbing on leaf undersides; triggered by drought or poor air circulation
Control: Water soil consistently; spray undersides with neem oil or insecticidal soap; ensure good spacing
Keep mugwort pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Mugwort pests — FAQ
What is eating my mugwort?
Mugwort (Artemisia vulgaris) is strongly pest-resistant — its potent aromatic compounds deter most insects, and it spreads aggressively enough to outcompete damage. Aphids and leaf beetles can appear in small numbers, and spider mites colonise stressed plants. The greater concern is mugwort itself spreading invasively via rhizomes.
How do I get rid of aphids on mugwort?
Small colonies on new growth cause slight leaf distortion and honeydew; rarely reach damaging levels given the plant's vigour Knock off with a water jet; natural predators (ladybirds, lacewings) usually keep numbers low
How do I get rid of leaf beetles on mugwort?
Small, irregular feeding holes or skeletonised patches on leaves Hand-pick adults and larvae; pyrethrum spray for significant infestations; plant vigour usually outpaces damage
How do I get rid of spider mites on mugwort?
Pale stippling and fine webbing on leaf undersides; triggered by drought or poor air circulation Water soil consistently; spray undersides with neem oil or insecticidal soap; ensure good spacing