Large-flowered tickseed plants, also known as Coreopsis grandiflora, are popular perennial flowers prized for their vibrant blooms and low maintenance requirements. However, like any plant, tickseed is susceptible to pest infestations that can damage its health and aesthetics. In this article, we will discuss the most common pests that affect large-flowered tickseed plants, how to identify them, and the best treatment methods to keep your plants healthy and thriving.
Aphids
Identification: Aphids are tiny, pear-shaped insects that can be green, yellow, black, or brown in color. They are often found clustered on the undersides of leaves or around new growth. Aphids feed by sucking sap from the plant, causing leaves to curl, turn yellow, or become distorted.
Treatment: To control aphids on large-flowered tickseed plants, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil spray. Alternatively, you can introduce natural predators like ladybugs or lacewings to help control the aphid population.
Spider Mites
Identification: Spider mites are minuscule arachnids that are difficult to see with the naked eye. They typically feed on the undersides of leaves, sucking out plant juices and causing stippling or yellowing of the foliage. Fine webbing may also be present on infested plants.
Treatment: To combat spider mites on tickseed plants, regularly spray the foliage with a strong stream of water to dislodge them. You can also apply insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to control spider mite populations effectively.
Whiteflies
Identification: Whiteflies are small insects with white wings that resemble tiny moths. They congregate on the undersides of leaves and fly up in a cloud when disturbed. Whiteflies extract sap from plants, leading to wilting, yellowing leaves, and stunted growth.
Treatment: Control whiteflies on large-flowered tickseed plants by using insecticidal soap or neem oil spray. Yellow sticky traps can also help reduce whitefly populations by capturing adult insects.
Slugs and Snails
Identification: Slugs and snails are nocturnal pests that feed on young foliage and flowers of large-flowered tickseed plants. Their slime trails are a telltale sign of their presence, along with ragged holes in leaves and petals.
Treatment: To deter slugs and snails, create barriers around your plants using crushed eggshells or diatomaceous earth. You can also handpick these pests during evening hours or use organic slug baits containing iron phosphate.
Caterpillars
Identification: Caterpillars are the larval stage of moths and butterflies that chew on foliage and flowers of tickseed plants. Look for holes in leaves or flower buds, frass (excrement), or visible caterpillars on your plants.
Treatment: Handpick caterpillars from your tickseed plants and relocate them away from your garden. If the infestation is severe, you can use Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) spray, a natural bacterial insecticide that targets caterpillars specifically.
Fungal Diseases
Large-flowered tickseed plants are also susceptible to fungal diseases such as powdery mildew and leaf spot. These diseases manifest as white powdery patches on leaves or dark spots with yellow halos.
Treatment: Improve air circulation around your tickseed plants by spacing them adequately and avoiding overhead watering. Fungicides containing sulfur or copper can help control fungal diseases when applied according to label instructions.
In conclusion, while large-flowered tickseed plants are generally resilient and low-maintenance flowers, they can still fall victim to pest infestations if not properly cared for. By familiarizing yourself with the common pests that affect tickseed plants and implementing appropriate treatment methods promptly, you can ensure that your garden remains healthy and flourishing throughout the growing season. Remember to monitor your plants regularly for signs of pest activity and act swiftly to prevent damage to your beloved tickseed flowers.