What's eating my penisetum massaicum red bunny tails?

Pennisetum massaicum 'Red Bunny Tails' is a warm-season ornamental grass grown outdoors. Aphids cluster on the decorative plumes and soft spring growth. Rust fungi create orange pustules on the blades. Rabbits frequently nibble this low-growing grass. In dry conditions grasshoppers may strip foliage. Aphids on the ornamental seed heads are the most visible and common problem.

Soft insect clusters on new shoots and developing plume heads; sticky honeydew; sooty mould on affected surfaces Blast off with a strong water jet; apply insecticidal soap or neem oil spray; lacewings and ladybirds provide good natural control when established

Orange or reddish-brown powdery pustules on leaf blades; heavily infected leaves yellow and die back early Remove affected blades; improve air circulation by not overcrowding; cut clumps to the ground in late autumn to remove overwintering spore load

Clumps grazed right to the ground, especially in winter and early spring; repeated browsing can exhaust root reserves Install rabbit-proof wire-mesh guards around individual clumps; repellent sprays based on garlic or predator scent can deter light nibbling