What's eating my tufted thyme?

Tufted thyme (Thymus caespititius) is a compact rock-garden species with strong aromatic oils that discourage most pests. Spittlebugs are the most common nuisance. Aphids may appear on new spring growth. Because it is naturally suited to free-draining, gritty soils, slug pressure is usually lower than on other thymes grown in richer ground.

Frothy white spittle masses on stems in early summer; nymphs feed on sap inside, weakening tender new shoots Wash off with a water jet; hand-remove; well-drained conditions help plants tolerate minor infestations

Small soft insects clustered on growing tips in spring; sticky residue and minor distortion of new leaves Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; no action usually needed on healthy established clumps

Notched scalloped edges on leaves from adult beetles feeding at night; larvae in containers eat roots causing sudden wilting Apply biological control (Steinernema kraussei nematodes) to pot compost in autumn; inspect roots when repotting; use barriers on container rims