Pest identification
What's eating my spanish marjoram?
Spittlebugs (Froghoppers)
Signs: White frothy masses clinging to stems in May through June; nymphs inside suck sap and may distort shoot tips
Control: Dislodge with a firm jet of water or remove by hand; healthy plants in well-drained soil recover without treatment
Aphids
Signs: Clusters of small soft insects on tender new growth in spring; sticky honeydew residue on leaves
Control: Apply insecticidal soap spray; natural predators such as ladybirds typically keep populations in check on established plants
Spider Mites
Signs: Pale stippling across leaves and fine webbing on undersides, typically during hot dry summer periods
Control: Mist foliage in dry weather; apply neem oil spray to leaf undersides; ensure adequate soil moisture during drought
Keep spanish marjoram pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Spanish Marjoram pests — FAQ
What is eating my spanish marjoram?
Spanish marjoram (Thymus mastichina) is grown mainly as an aromatic ornamental herb and shares the thyme genus's natural pest resistance. Spittlebugs are the most frequent visitor in early summer. Aphids occasionally appear on soft growth. Its resinous camphor-like scent strongly deters deer, rabbits, and most flying insects.
How do I get rid of spittlebugs (froghoppers) on spanish marjoram?
White frothy masses clinging to stems in May through June; nymphs inside suck sap and may distort shoot tips Dislodge with a firm jet of water or remove by hand; healthy plants in well-drained soil recover without treatment
How do I get rid of aphids on spanish marjoram?
Clusters of small soft insects on tender new growth in spring; sticky honeydew residue on leaves Apply insecticidal soap spray; natural predators such as ladybirds typically keep populations in check on established plants
How do I get rid of spider mites on spanish marjoram?
Pale stippling across leaves and fine webbing on undersides, typically during hot dry summer periods Mist foliage in dry weather; apply neem oil spray to leaf undersides; ensure adequate soil moisture during drought