What's eating my new england aster?

New England Aster is targeted by aphids, lace bugs, and the aster leaftier caterpillar. Deer and rabbits browse it readily in autumn when other forage is scarce. Inspect stems in late spring for aphid colonies and check leaf undersides for lace bug stippling. Good air circulation reduces the powdery mildew that weakens plants and worsens pest pressure.

Dense colonies on shoot tips and stem undersides cause distorted new growth, sticky honeydew, and sooty mold on leaves Knock off with a strong water jet; introduce ladybirds or lacewing larvae; treat persistent colonies with insecticidal soap or neem oil spray

Upper leaf surfaces show pale stippling and silvery bleaching; cast skins and tar-like frass visible on undersides Remove and destroy heavily infested leaves; apply neem oil or insecticidal soap targeting the underside; keep plants well-watered as stressed plants are more susceptible

Larvae tie and roll leaves with silk webbing, feeding inside the bundle and leaving ragged brown patches Hand-pick and destroy rolled leaves; apply Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis) to young caterpillars; avoid dense planting that aids larval movement

Stems and foliage browsed to stubs, particularly on outer or isolated plants in autumn when flowers are in bud Surround beds with wire mesh or motion-activated deterrents; apply deer repellent spray; consider planting highly aromatic neighbours as a buffer