Pest identification
What's eating my russian tarragon?
Slugs and snails
Signs: Young spring shoots and new growth consumed overnight; established plants can be severely set back in wet seasons
Control: Grow in dry, well-drained conditions which slugs dislike; apply iron phosphate pellets; hand-pick at night
Aphids
Signs: Colonies on soft shoot tips cause leaf curl and sticky honeydew; usually a minor issue
Control: Blast off with water; insecticidal soap spray for persistent infestations; beneficial insects typically provide natural control
Spider mites
Signs: Stippled pale flecks on leaf surfaces; fine webbing visible in dry, hot spells
Control: Increase watering; spray undersides of foliage with water or neem oil; improve airflow
Keep russian tarragon pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Russian Tarragon pests — FAQ
What is eating my russian tarragon?
Russian Tarragon is largely pest-resistant and its aromatic oils actively deter many insects. Slugs are the most consistent threat, capable of destroying young shoots overnight. Aphids and spider mites can appear in dry conditions but rarely persist. Dry, well-drained soil discourages slugs and keeps the plant vigorous.
How do I get rid of slugs and snails on russian tarragon?
Young spring shoots and new growth consumed overnight; established plants can be severely set back in wet seasons Grow in dry, well-drained conditions which slugs dislike; apply iron phosphate pellets; hand-pick at night
How do I get rid of aphids on russian tarragon?
Colonies on soft shoot tips cause leaf curl and sticky honeydew; usually a minor issue Blast off with water; insecticidal soap spray for persistent infestations; beneficial insects typically provide natural control
How do I get rid of spider mites on russian tarragon?
Stippled pale flecks on leaf surfaces; fine webbing visible in dry, hot spells Increase watering; spray undersides of foliage with water or neem oil; improve airflow