Most Common Hydrangea Plant Pests:
Identification and Treatment Guide

Hydrangeas are beloved for their beautiful, showy blooms and ability to thrive in a variety of climates. However, like any plant, hydrangeas are susceptible to pests that can cause damage and hinder their growth. In this article, we will discuss some of the most common hydrangea plant pests, how to identify them, and the best treatments for each.

Aphids

Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that come in a range of colors, including green, yellow, and black. They are usually found on the undersides of leaves and feed on the sap of the hydrangea plant. If left untreated, aphids can weaken the plant and cause distorted growth.

To identify aphids on your hydrangeas, look for clusters of tiny insects on the leaves or stems. You may also notice sticky residue called honeydew on the leaves or ground below the plant.

To treat an infestation of aphids, start by spraying the affected areas with a strong stream of water to dislodge them. You can also use insecticidal soap or neem oil to kill the aphids. Repeat treatments may be necessary until the infestation is under control.

Spider Mites

Spider mites are tiny pests that are barely visible to the naked eye. They are typically reddish-brown or yellow in color and create fine webbing on the undersides of leaves. Spider mites feed on the sap of plants, causing yellowing leaves and stunted growth.

To identify spider mites, examine the undersides of leaves for fine webbing and tiny specks moving around. You may also notice yellowing or bronzing of the leaves.

To treat spider mites on your hydrangeas, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil. Be sure to thoroughly cover both sides of the leaves, as spider mites tend to hide in the webbing. Repeat treatments every 7-10 days until the infestation is eliminated.

Scale Insects

Scale insects are small, immobile pests that attach themselves to the stems and leaves of plants. They have a protective covering that resembles a scale or shell, hence their name. Scale insects feed on plant sap, which can lead to weakened growth and yellowing leaves.

To identify scale insects on your hydrangeas, look for small, raised bumps that can be brown, black, or white in color. They may also leave behind a sticky residue called honeydew.

To treat scale insects, you can scrape them off with a soft brush or cloth dipped in rubbing alcohol. Alternatively, you can use insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to suffocate them. Multiple treatments may be necessary to completely eradicate the infestation.

Leaf Miners

Leaf miners are the larvae of small flies or moths that burrow into the leaves of plants. They create winding tunnels or trails that are visible on the surface of the leaves. Leaf miners feed on the tissue inside the leaves, causing them to turn brown and become distorted.

To identify leaf miners on your hydrangeas, look for winding trails on the surface of the leaves. You may also notice small, whitish maggots inside the trails.

To treat leaf miners, you can remove and destroy affected leaves to prevent further infestation. Insecticides containing spinosad or Bacillus thuringiensis (BT) can also be effective against leaf miners. Follow the instructions on the product label for best results.

Japanese Beetles

Japanese beetles are metallic-green insects with copper-colored wings. They are notorious pests that feed on a wide range of plants, including hydrangeas. Japanese beetles chew on the leaves and flowers of hydrangeas, leaving behind skeletonized foliage and damaged blooms.

To identify Japanese beetles on your hydrangeas, look for clusters of green beetles on the leaves or flowers. You may also notice chewed leaves and petals.

To treat Japanese beetles, you can handpick them off your plants and drop them into a bucket of soapy water. Alternatively, you can use insecticides labeled for Japanese beetle control. Be sure to follow the instructions carefully to avoid harming beneficial insects.

Conclusion

While hydrangeas are generally hardy plants, they can still fall victim to common pests that can hinder their growth and beauty. By knowing how to identify these pests and using appropriate treatments, you can protect your hydrangeas and keep them healthy and thriving. Regular inspections and prompt action are key to preventing infestations from becoming severe. With a little care and attention, you can enjoy your beautiful hydrangeas pest-free all season long.