Pest identification
What's eating my veronicastrum virginicum?
Aphids
Signs: Clusters on tall flower spikes and new stem growth; honeydew attracts ants; can distort buds
Control: Strong water jet to dislodge; insecticidal soap spray; encourage ladybirds and lacewings
Slugs
Signs: Holes in large basal leaves and emerging spring shoots; mostly a problem in wet early-season conditions
Control: Ferric phosphate pellets around crowns in early spring; remove nearby debris where slugs shelter
Deer
Signs: Tall stems and foliage browsed back heavily, especially in late spring and summer
Control: Deer repellent spray; physical fencing; planting within a mixed tall border provides some deterrent
Keep veronicastrum virginicum pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Veronicastrum virginicum pests — FAQ
What is eating my veronicastrum virginicum?
Veronicastrum virginicum (Culver's root) is a tall prairie perennial with relatively few serious pests. Aphids are the most frequent visitor, clustering on flower spikes, while caterpillars of some moths occasionally feed on foliage. Slugs can damage emerging spring growth. Deer may browse plants in rural settings, and powdery mildew in drought weakens stems indirectly.
How do I get rid of aphids on veronicastrum virginicum?
Clusters on tall flower spikes and new stem growth; honeydew attracts ants; can distort buds Strong water jet to dislodge; insecticidal soap spray; encourage ladybirds and lacewings
How do I get rid of slugs on veronicastrum virginicum?
Holes in large basal leaves and emerging spring shoots; mostly a problem in wet early-season conditions Ferric phosphate pellets around crowns in early spring; remove nearby debris where slugs shelter
How do I get rid of deer on veronicastrum virginicum?
Tall stems and foliage browsed back heavily, especially in late spring and summer Deer repellent spray; physical fencing; planting within a mixed tall border provides some deterrent