Pest identification
What's eating my spiked sedge?
Slugs and snails
Signs: Irregular notching and chewing on young leaf tips, mainly in spring and in wet weather; worst on newly planted divisions
Control: Iron phosphate slug pellets or Phasmarhabditis hermaphrodita nematode drench in moist soil; grit mulch around crowns as a deterrent
Aphids
Signs: Occasional small colonies on emerging growth in spring; minor distortion and honeydew deposits that rarely need treatment
Control: Spray with a firm jet of water; apply insecticidal soap if colonies do not clear within 2–3 weeks
Keep spiked sedge pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
spiked sedge pests — FAQ
What is eating my spiked sedge?
Spiked sedge (Carex spicata) is a native European grassland sedge and is notably pest-resistant. Slugs and snails occasionally chew young leaves in damp conditions, and aphids may briefly colonise new shoots. No serious insect pests are associated with this species. Established clumps in suitable sites need no pest management.
How do I get rid of slugs and snails on spiked sedge?
Irregular notching and chewing on young leaf tips, mainly in spring and in wet weather; worst on newly planted divisions Iron phosphate slug pellets or Phasmarhabditis hermaphrodita nematode drench in moist soil; grit mulch around crowns as a deterrent
How do I get rid of aphids on spiked sedge?
Occasional small colonies on emerging growth in spring; minor distortion and honeydew deposits that rarely need treatment Spray with a firm jet of water; apply insecticidal soap if colonies do not clear within 2–3 weeks