Most Common Rhubarb Plant Pests:
Identification and Treatment Guide

Rhubarb is a popular perennial vegetable that is grown for its tart stalks, which are commonly used in pies, jams, and other delicious desserts. While rhubarb plants are generally hardy and low-maintenance, they can still fall victim to various pests that can damage or destroy the plant if left untreated. In this article, we will discuss some of the most common rhubarb plant pests, how to identify them, and the best treatment options available.

Aphids

Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that come in various colors such as green, black, brown, or red. They feed on the sap of plants, including rhubarb, by piercing the leaves and stems with their mouthparts. Aphids reproduce rapidly and can quickly infest a rhubarb plant if not controlled.

You can identify aphids by the presence of sticky honeydew on the plant leaves and stems, as well as distorted growth and curling of leaves. Ladybugs and lacewings are natural predators of aphids and can help control their population. However, if the infestation is severe, you may need to resort to chemical control methods.

To treat aphids on your rhubarb plants, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil spray. These organic insecticides work by suffocating the aphids and disrupting their feeding habits. Apply the spray according to the instructions on the product label and repeat as necessary until the infestation is under control.

Slugs

Slugs are another common pest that can wreak havoc on rhubarb plants. These slimy creatures are nocturnal and feed on the leaves and stems of the plant. Slugs leave behind large irregular holes in the foliage and may also leave a trail of slime behind them.

To identify slugs, you can inspect your rhubarb plants in the early morning or evening when they are most active. You may also notice their silvery slime trails on the ground or surrounding vegetation.

There are several methods to control slugs in your rhubarb patch. One effective approach is to create physical barriers around the plants, such as copper tape or a ring of diatomaceous earth, which will deter the slugs from crossing. Another option is to handpick the slugs and dispose of them away from your garden. You can also attract natural predators, such as toads or birds, to your garden to help control the slug population.

Rhubarb Curculio

The rhubarb curculio is a small weevil that primarily attacks rhubarb plants. The adult curculios feed on the edges of rhubarb leaves, creating characteristic notches along the edges. They also lay eggs inside the stems of the plant, leading to further damage.

To identify rhubarb curculio damage, look for notched leaves and wilting stems. If you suspect an infestation, you can inspect the stems by cutting them open and checking for larvae or pupae.

Controlling rhubarb curculio can be challenging due to their protected habitat inside the stems. One effective method is to prune and destroy any infected stems as soon as you notice them. This will help prevent further damage and reduce the population of curculios in your garden. You can also use insecticides labeled for weevil control; however, it’s important to follow the instructions carefully to avoid harming beneficial insects.

Rhubarb Crown Borer

The rhubarb crown borer is a destructive pest that attacks the base of rhubarb plants. The larvae bore into the crown and feed on the inside, weakening or killing the plant over time. Adult crown borers are clear-winged moths that resemble wasps or bees.

To identify rhubarb crown borer infestation, look for holes or sawdust-like frass around the base of the plant. You may also notice wilting or stunted growth of the plant as a result of the damage caused by the larvae.

Preventing rhubarb crown borer infestation is crucial, as treatment options are limited once the larvae are inside the crown. One preventive measure is to inspect new rhubarb plants for signs of infestation before planting them in your garden. You can also apply a layer of diatomaceous earth around the base of the plant as a physical barrier against the adult moths.

Conclusion

Keeping your rhubarb plants free from pests is essential to ensure their healthy growth and abundant harvest. By identifying common rhubarb plant pests and understanding their treatment options, you can effectively control and prevent infestations in your garden. Remember to always choose organic and environmentally friendly methods whenever possible to protect beneficial insects and maintain a healthy ecosystem in your garden.