Pest identification
What's eating my russian arborvitae?
Spider mites (Oligonychus spp.)
Signs: Yellowish-bronze stippling and fine webbing on foliage in hot, dry weather; foliage may brown back if severe.
Control: Irrigate during drought to reduce heat stress. Apply neem oil or insecticidal soap spray in the morning. Repeat every 5–7 days in hot spells until clear.
Juniper scale (Carulaspis juniperi)
Signs: White or greyish waxy scales on stems and foliage; gradual yellowing; thinning of needle cover.
Control: Thorough dormant horticultural oil application in late winter before new growth begins. Insecticidal soap during crawler emergence in early summer.
Deer / rabbits
Signs: Foliage nibbled or stripped from plant, especially over winter when groundcover is accessible under snow or frost.
Control: Chicken wire barriers around new plantings. Monthly deer repellent spray. Established plants tolerate browsing and typically recover in spring.
Keep russian arborvitae pest-free
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Russian Arborvitae pests — FAQ
What is eating my russian arborvitae?
Russian Arborvitae (Microbiota decussata) is a tough, low-maintenance groundcover conifer with notably few pest problems. Spider mites are the main threat in hot, dry, poorly ventilated spots. Scale insects occasionally appear. Deer and rabbits may browse it, particularly in winter. Overall, this is one of the more pest-resistant conifers available for garden use.
How do I get rid of spider mites (oligonychus spp.) on russian arborvitae?
Yellowish-bronze stippling and fine webbing on foliage in hot, dry weather; foliage may brown back if severe. Irrigate during drought to reduce heat stress. Apply neem oil or insecticidal soap spray in the morning. Repeat every 5–7 days in hot spells until clear.
How do I get rid of juniper scale (carulaspis juniperi) on russian arborvitae?
White or greyish waxy scales on stems and foliage; gradual yellowing; thinning of needle cover. Thorough dormant horticultural oil application in late winter before new growth begins. Insecticidal soap during crawler emergence in early summer.
How do I get rid of deer / rabbits on russian arborvitae?
Foliage nibbled or stripped from plant, especially over winter when groundcover is accessible under snow or frost. Chicken wire barriers around new plantings. Monthly deer repellent spray. Established plants tolerate browsing and typically recover in spring.