How to Get Rid of Borers on Hollyhock Plant

Hollyhocks are beautiful flowering plants that add a touch of elegance to any garden. However, these plants are susceptible to a common pest known as borers. Borers are insects that feed on the inner tissues of plants, causing damage and sometimes even death. If left untreated, borers can have a devastating impact on your hollyhock plants. In this article, we will explore different methods to get rid of borers and help your hollyhocks thrive.

Identifying Borers

Before we dive into the solutions, it’s important to be able to identify borers on your hollyhock plants. Borers are typically moth larvae that bore into the stems of plants. They leave behind small holes and create tunnels within the plant’s tissues. Signs of borer infestation include wilting, stunted growth, yellowing leaves, and the presence of small piles of sawdust-like material near the base of the plant.

Prevention is Key

The best way to deal with borers is to prevent them from infesting your hollyhock plants in the first place. Here are some preventative measures you can take:

1. Choose Resistant Varieties

When selecting hollyhock plants for your garden, look for varieties that are known to be resistant to borers. These varieties have natural defenses against borers and are less likely to be attacked. Some common resistant varieties include ‘Old Barnyard’, ‘Powder Puffs’, and ‘Queeny Purple’.

2. Maintain Healthy Plants

Keeping your hollyhock plants healthy is crucial in preventing borer infestations. Ensure that your plants receive adequate sunlight, water, and nutrients. Prune any dead or damaged branches and remove weeds around the plant, as they can attract borers.

3. Clean Garden Debris

Borers overwinter in garden debris, so it’s important to clean up fallen leaves, stems, and other plant debris during the winter months. Dispose of the debris in a sealed bag or burn it to prevent the overwintering borers from re-infesting your plants in the spring.

Natural Remedies

If you’ve already noticed signs of borers on your hollyhock plants, don’t worry. There are several natural remedies that can help you get rid of these pests without resorting to harsh chemicals. Here are a few options:

1. Neem Oil

Neem oil is a natural insecticide that can be effective against borers. Mix neem oil with water according to the instructions on the bottle and spray it onto the affected parts of your hollyhock plants. Repeat this process every 7-10 days until the borers are eliminated. Neem oil not only kills borers but also acts as a deterrent, preventing future infestations.

2. Beneficial Insects

Introducing beneficial insects into your garden can be an effective way to control borer populations naturally. Lacewings and parasitic wasps are natural predators of borers and can help keep their numbers in check. You can attract these beneficial insects by planting flowers that they are attracted to, such as yarrow, daisies, and marigolds.

3. Diatomaceous Earth

Diatomaceous earth is a natural powder made from fossilized remains of diatoms. It is abrasive to insects and can be an effective remedy against borers. Sprinkle diatomaceous earth around the base of your hollyhock plants, focusing on areas where borers are active. The powder will cut through the pests’ exoskeletons and dehydrate them, ultimately killing them.

Chemical Control

If natural remedies fail to eliminate borers from your hollyhock plants, you may need to resort to chemical control methods. However, it’s important to use these methods as a last resort and with caution. Here are a few options to consider:

1. Insecticidal Soap

Insecticidal soap is a low-toxicity solution that can be sprayed directly onto borers. It works by suffocating the pests and disrupting their cell membranes. Follow the instructions on the product label and apply the insecticidal soap to the affected areas of your hollyhock plants. Repeat the application as necessary.

2. Systemic Insecticides

Systemic insecticides are absorbed by the plant and provide long-lasting protection against borers. These insecticides are typically applied to the soil around the base of the plant, allowing the plant to take up the chemical through its roots. However, systemic insecticides should be used with caution, as they can also harm beneficial insects and other wildlife.

Conclusion

Dealing with borers on your hollyhock plants can be challenging, but with proper identification and the right control methods, you can protect your plants from these pesky pests. Remember to focus on prevention by choosing resistant varieties and maintaining healthy plants. If an infestation does occur, start with natural remedies and only resort to chemical control methods as a last resort. By taking proactive measures, you can enjoy beautiful and borer-free hollyhocks in your garden for years to come.