Pest identification
What's eating my paprika yarrow?
Aphids
Signs: Dense colonies on flower stems; honeydew and sooty mold on leaves below
Control: Spray off with water; apply insecticidal soap or neem oil
Spittlebugs (froghoppers)
Signs: Frothy white foam ('cuckoo spit') on stems; sucking weakens plant vigour slightly
Control: Wipe or hose off froth to expose nymphs; rarely needs further treatment
Caterpillars
Signs: Irregular holes in leaves and flower heads from nocturnal feeding
Control: Hand-pick; apply Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) spray if populations are high
Keep paprika yarrow pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Paprika yarrow pests — FAQ
What is eating my paprika yarrow?
Paprika yarrow is naturally deer- and rabbit-resistant due to its aromatic foliage, but aphids cluster on flower stems and spittlebugs produce frothy patches on lower stems. Powdery mildew from poor airflow is more damaging than most insect pests. Well-drained soil and sun prevent most problems.
How do I get rid of aphids on paprika yarrow?
Dense colonies on flower stems; honeydew and sooty mold on leaves below Spray off with water; apply insecticidal soap or neem oil
How do I get rid of spittlebugs (froghoppers) on paprika yarrow?
Frothy white foam ('cuckoo spit') on stems; sucking weakens plant vigour slightly Wipe or hose off froth to expose nymphs; rarely needs further treatment
How do I get rid of caterpillars on paprika yarrow?
Irregular holes in leaves and flower heads from nocturnal feeding Hand-pick; apply Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) spray if populations are high