Growli

Pest identification

What's eating my philadelphus microphyllus?

Aphids

Signs: Colonies on new shoot growth; sticky, curled leaves; honeydew deposits on foliage and stems

Control: Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; blast off with water; invite or establish predatory insects

Leafhoppers

Signs: White or pale yellow stippling on upper leaf surfaces; leaves look faded; nymphs jump when plant is touched

Control: Apply insecticidal soap or pyrethrin; mulch well and avoid plant stress; encourage diverse beneficial insect community

Spider mites

Signs: Fine pale speckling on small leaves; dusty webbing underneath; foliage bronzes and drops in hot dry conditions

Control: Mist foliage to raise humidity; spray with neem oil or horticultural oil; ensure plants are not drought-stressed

Keep philadelphus microphyllus pest-free

Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:

Philadelphus microphyllus pests — FAQ

What is eating my philadelphus microphyllus?

Philadelphus microphyllus (littleleaf mock orange) is a compact, drought-tolerant species that faces fewer pest problems than large-leafed cultivars. Aphids can attack new growth in spring, and leafhoppers cause pale leaf stippling. In dry exposed gardens, spider mites may flare up. Deer will browse if present in the area.

How do I get rid of aphids on philadelphus microphyllus?

Colonies on new shoot growth; sticky, curled leaves; honeydew deposits on foliage and stems Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; blast off with water; invite or establish predatory insects

How do I get rid of leafhoppers on philadelphus microphyllus?

White or pale yellow stippling on upper leaf surfaces; leaves look faded; nymphs jump when plant is touched Apply insecticidal soap or pyrethrin; mulch well and avoid plant stress; encourage diverse beneficial insect community

How do I get rid of spider mites on philadelphus microphyllus?

Fine pale speckling on small leaves; dusty webbing underneath; foliage bronzes and drops in hot dry conditions Mist foliage to raise humidity; spray with neem oil or horticultural oil; ensure plants are not drought-stressed