What's eating my wild bergamot?

Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa) is susceptible to powdery mildew, which is its greatest threat in humid summers. Aphids and spider mites attack during hot, dry spells. Stalk borers can tunnel into thick stems. Rabbits and deer occasionally browse young growth, though aromatic foliage reduces palatability. Good airflow is the primary defence.

White powdery patches covering leaves and stems in mid-to-late summer, especially in humid or crowded conditions; foliage yellows and dies back early. Space plants 45–60 cm apart; choose resistant cultivars; remove infected leaves promptly; spray with potassium bicarbonate or neem oil.

Sticky, curled shoot tips; colonies of soft-bodied insects on stems; attracts sooty mould and ants. Spray with insecticidal soap; encourage natural predators; usually self-limiting once the plant matures.

Wilting individual stems that look healthy from outside; hollow centre when cut; entry hole with frass at stem base. Remove and destroy infested stems immediately; no effective spray once borer is inside — focus on removing weedy host plants nearby.