What's eating my prairie sky switch grass?

Prairie Sky switch grass (Panicum virgatum 'Prairie Sky') is a robust native prairie grass with very few serious pests. Aphids cluster on new growth in spring. Rust mites can cause silvery leaf flecking in hot, dry summers. Leafhoppers are occasional visitors. Deer and rabbits largely avoid it once established. Good drainage and full sun keep this cultivar thriving with minimal pest intervention.

Colonies on soft spring shoots; sticky honeydew; possible yellowing or curling of new growth Blast off with water jet; apply insecticidal soap or neem oil; encourage natural predators such as ladybirds and parasitic wasps

Fine silvery or bronze stippling on the distinctive blue leaf blades; may reduce the ornamental blue-grey colouring Ensure adequate spacing for air circulation; remove and dispose of heavily affected leaves; apply horticultural (neem) oil spray in persistent cases

Pale speckled stippling across leaf surfaces; blades appear bleached or dull; insects jump when foliage is touched Usually tolerate as damage is cosmetic on established plants; pyrethrin spray for severe or repeated outbreaks