What's eating my pot marjoram?

Pot marjoram's aromatic oils give it good natural pest resistance. When problems do occur, aphids and spider mites are the two most common culprits, both favoring young growth or plants under heat stress. Spittlebugs can also appear on stems. Good airflow, avoiding overwatering, and early intervention with insecticidal soap keep all three in check.

Soft-bodied colonies on stem tips and leaf undersides cause curling, yellowing leaves and deposit sticky honeydew that attracts ants and sooty mould. Knock off with a water jet or apply insecticidal soap. Encourage ladybirds. Pinching off heavily colonised tips often resolves minor infestations.

Pale yellow stippling on upper leaf surfaces; fine webbing under leaves in hot, dry conditions. Leaves may bronze and drop. Increase ambient humidity; spray undersides of leaves with water. Apply neem oil or insecticidal soap if infestation is established.

White frothy masses on stems conceal sap-feeding nymphs; shoot tips may be slightly distorted but lasting damage is minimal. Dislodge with a strong water jet. No further treatment needed on healthy plants.