Disease or Pest on Lupine

I seem to have problems with disease or pests on my lupine. Last summer a worm devastated the lupine for this first time. I tried to spray but never completely rid the lupine of these pests. This year I replanted and again, I am getting a wilting of the stem and it looks like something is chewing them.

Worms eating inside the stem are stalk borers. They feed on the tissue that carries water and nutrients between the roots and leaves. Sprays won't help once the insect is inside the stem. Remove and destroy infested stems. Fall clean up will also help reduce the occurrence of this insect. Several stem rots can also cause plants to wilt and die. Look at the base of the stem for blackening or a pinched appearance. This indicates a root or stem rot. Remove infected plants and wait several seasons before replanting lupines in this area. Amend heavy soils with organic matter before planting to reduce the risk of root rot. Lupines perform best in full sun, cool temperatures and well-drained soils for best results.

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