How to Get Rid of Borers on Feverfew Plant

Feverfew plant is a beautiful perennial herb with small daisy-like flowers. It is a popular plant for gardens because of its medicinal properties and its ability to repel insects. However, one of the biggest challenges that gardeners face when growing feverfew is the problem of borers. Borers are insects that can cause significant damage to the plant by burrowing into the stems and roots. In this article, we’ll discuss how to get rid of borers on feverfew plant.

Identifying borers on feverfew plant

Before you can get rid of borers on feverfew plant, you need to identify them first. The most common type of borer that affects feverfew plant is the stem borer. The stem borer larvae are white and worm-like, and they burrow into the stem of the plant. You may notice small holes in the stem or wilted leaves as a result of their feeding.

Steps to get rid of borers on feverfew plant

Prune infected stems: The first step in getting rid of borers on feverfew plant is to prune infected stems as soon as you notice them. Cut off any part of the stem that looks wilted or has small holes in it. Dispose of the infected stems in a sealed plastic bag.
Apply insecticide: Use an insecticide that is labeled for use on feverfew plants. Follow the instructions carefully and make sure you cover all parts of the plant, including the stem, leaves, and flowers.
Remove weeds: Remove any weeds around your feverfew plant as they can attract borers.
Keep your garden clean: Rake up fallen leaves and debris around your feverfew plant regularly. This will reduce the likelihood of borers finding a place to hide.
Use row covers: Use row covers to protect your feverfew plant from borers. Row covers are a lightweight, breathable fabric that you can place over your plant to keep insects away.

Prevention tips

Prevention is always better than cure when it comes to gardening. Here are some tips to prevent borers from attacking your feverfew plant:

Keep your garden clean and free of debris
Remove weeds regularly
Use row covers to protect your plants
Plant feverfew plants in well-drained soil
Water your plants properly
Avoid over-fertilizing your plants

FAQ

Can I use natural remedies to get rid of borers on my feverfew plant?

Yes, there are several natural remedies that you can try. For example, you can sprinkle diatomaceous earth around the base of your plant to repel borers. You can also try spraying neem oil on your plant.

How often should I apply insecticide to my feverfew plant?

It depends on the type of insecticide you’re using. Follow the instructions on the label carefully.

Can I still harvest my feverfew plant if it has borers?

It’s not recommended to harvest a feverfew plant that has been infected with borers as it may affect the quality of the leaves and flowers.