Pest identification
What's eating my pony tails grass?
Aphids
Signs: Soft colonies on flower stems, causing sticky residue and minor distortion of seedheads.
Control: Knock off with water spray; use insecticidal soap if infestations are heavy.
Slugs & Snails
Signs: Chewed or ragged foliage at the base, particularly on newly planted or container specimens.
Control: Use iron phosphate slug pellets or beer traps near plants; improve drainage to deter slugs.
Rust (Puccinia spp.)
Signs: Orange pustules on leaves; mainly affects plants in humid, poorly ventilated spots.
Control: Cut back affected growth; improve airflow; avoid wetting foliage when watering.
Keep pony tails grass pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Pony Tails Grass pests — FAQ
What is eating my pony tails grass?
Pony Tails Grass (Stipa tenuissima) is very low-maintenance and rarely troubled by pests. Aphids may visit flower stems in spring, and slugs can nibble fresh growth on young plants. Rust can occur in humid conditions. Overall, it is one of the most trouble-free ornamental grasses.
How do I get rid of aphids on pony tails grass?
Soft colonies on flower stems, causing sticky residue and minor distortion of seedheads. Knock off with water spray; use insecticidal soap if infestations are heavy.
How do I get rid of slugs & snails on pony tails grass?
Chewed or ragged foliage at the base, particularly on newly planted or container specimens. Use iron phosphate slug pellets or beer traps near plants; improve drainage to deter slugs.
How do I get rid of rust (puccinia spp.) on pony tails grass?
Orange pustules on leaves; mainly affects plants in humid, poorly ventilated spots. Cut back affected growth; improve airflow; avoid wetting foliage when watering.