Pest identification
What's eating my solidago 'fireworks'?
Aphids (goldenrod aphid)
Signs: Orange or green colonies on stems and flower branches; honeydew deposits encourage sooty mold
Control: Strong water spray; insecticidal soap applied to colonies; encourage ladybirds and hoverflies
Goldenrod gall fly (Eurosta solidaginis)
Signs: Round stem galls on individual canes; reduces bloom on affected stems
Control: Cut out and discard galls before spring adult emergence; no in-season chemical control needed
Sawfly larvae
Signs: Stripped or notched leaves on individual stems; pale larvae feeding gregariously
Control: Handpick larvae; Bt or spinosad for heavy outbreaks; clean up dead stems in autumn
Keep solidago 'fireworks' pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Solidago 'Fireworks' pests — FAQ
What is eating my solidago 'fireworks'?
Solidago 'Fireworks' (Solidago rugosa 'Fireworks') shares the goldenrod pest profile but is particularly vigorous and outgrows most damage. Aphid colonies on arching stems are the most frequent nuisance. Gall flies and sawflies occur but rarely ruin the display. Deer may sample new growth; the dense clumps recover quickly.
How do I get rid of aphids (goldenrod aphid) on solidago 'fireworks'?
Orange or green colonies on stems and flower branches; honeydew deposits encourage sooty mold Strong water spray; insecticidal soap applied to colonies; encourage ladybirds and hoverflies
How do I get rid of goldenrod gall fly (eurosta solidaginis) on solidago 'fireworks'?
Round stem galls on individual canes; reduces bloom on affected stems Cut out and discard galls before spring adult emergence; no in-season chemical control needed
How do I get rid of sawfly larvae on solidago 'fireworks'?
Stripped or notched leaves on individual stems; pale larvae feeding gregariously Handpick larvae; Bt or spinosad for heavy outbreaks; clean up dead stems in autumn