
Worms Eating Columbine Leaves
For the last couple years I get tiny worms on my columbine. They defoliate the plants almost before I realize they are chewing away.
I receive several calls a year from gardeners reporting missing leaves on their columbine plants. You are one of the few that have actually seen the worm-like insect, columbine sawfly, feeding on the plant. As you discovered these insects eat the leaves of columbines leaving just the midvein of the leaf intact. Fortunately the plants can tolerate the damage, but it certainly impacts the beauty. Watch for these pests and pick off any you find. Smash or drop them in soapy water. Larger populations can be controlled with eco-friendly products like insecticidal soap or spinosad sold as Conserve or other trade names. If you see damage but it does not seem to be progressing and you can’t find the sawflies, they are done feeding for the season. No control is needed or helpful. Just mark your calendar as a reminder to watch for and control these pests a bit earlier next season.
Related
Categories
Upcoming Webinars & Appearances
Feb. 4, 2023
WCBA's Home Building &
Remodeling EXPO
West Bend, Wisconsin
Feb. 8, 2023
WEBINAR:
Indoor Container Garden Design & Display Ideas
Register now
Feb. 10-12, 2023
PBS Wisconsin
Garden & Landscape EXPO
Madison, Wisconsin
Feb. 15, 2023
WEBINAR:
10 Tips for Growing Better Dahlias!
Register now
Feb. 17-19, 2023
NARI Milwaukee Spring Home Improvement Show
West Allis, Wisconsin
Feb. 22, 2023
WEBINAR:
Grow Beautiful Water Gardens
Register now
Watch Melinda's past webinars ON DEMAND
Learn More