Pest identification
What's eating my prairie rosinweed?
Aphids
Signs: Sticky honeydew residue, curled or yellowed new leaves, ant activity on stems
Control: Strong water spray to dislodge; insecticidal soap; introduce beneficial insects such as ladybirds
Stem-boring beetles
Signs: Wilting or snapping of individual stems; frass (sawdust-like droppings) at stem base
Control: Remove and destroy infested stems; avoid wounding stems which attract borers
Leafhoppers
Signs: Fine white stippling across leaves giving a bleached appearance
Control: Neem oil or insecticidal soap; encourage natural predators in the garden
Keep prairie rosinweed pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Prairie Rosinweed pests — FAQ
What is eating my prairie rosinweed?
Prairie Rosinweed is highly pest-tolerant but can be targeted by aphids on fresh spring growth and stem-boring beetles whose larvae tunnel into thick stalks. Deer and rabbits largely avoid it due to resinous foliage. Aphids are the most frequent problem and rarely cause lasting damage to established plants.
How do I get rid of aphids on prairie rosinweed?
Sticky honeydew residue, curled or yellowed new leaves, ant activity on stems Strong water spray to dislodge; insecticidal soap; introduce beneficial insects such as ladybirds
How do I get rid of stem-boring beetles on prairie rosinweed?
Wilting or snapping of individual stems; frass (sawdust-like droppings) at stem base Remove and destroy infested stems; avoid wounding stems which attract borers
How do I get rid of leafhoppers on prairie rosinweed?
Fine white stippling across leaves giving a bleached appearance Neem oil or insecticidal soap; encourage natural predators in the garden