Pest identification
What's eating my showy goldenrod?
Goldenrod gall fly (Eurosta solidaginis)
Signs: Round stem galls causing stem weakness and reduced bloom production
Control: Remove and destroy galls before adult emergence in spring; cut at least 5 cm below the gall
Goldenrod aphid
Signs: Orange aphid colonies on upper stems; honeydew leads to sooty mold on leaves below
Control: Blast off with water; apply insecticidal soap; parasitic wasps often control outbreaks naturally
Sawfly larvae
Signs: Ragged or missing leaves on individual stems; small pale caterpillar-like larvae feeding in groups
Control: Handpick; spinosad spray for large infestations; remove plant debris in autumn to reduce overwintering
Keep showy goldenrod pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Showy Goldenrod pests — FAQ
What is eating my showy goldenrod?
Showy Goldenrod (Solidago speciosa) attracts the typical suite of goldenrod pests. Stem-galling insects cause the most structural damage. Aphid colonies develop on shoot tips in summer. Sawfly larvae can strip individual stems. Deer and rabbits occasionally browse new growth in spring but established plants are vigorous enough to recover.
How do I get rid of goldenrod gall fly (eurosta solidaginis) on showy goldenrod?
Round stem galls causing stem weakness and reduced bloom production Remove and destroy galls before adult emergence in spring; cut at least 5 cm below the gall
How do I get rid of goldenrod aphid on showy goldenrod?
Orange aphid colonies on upper stems; honeydew leads to sooty mold on leaves below Blast off with water; apply insecticidal soap; parasitic wasps often control outbreaks naturally
How do I get rid of sawfly larvae on showy goldenrod?
Ragged or missing leaves on individual stems; small pale caterpillar-like larvae feeding in groups Handpick; spinosad spray for large infestations; remove plant debris in autumn to reduce overwintering