Q. Something seems to be eating the leaves of my Butterfly bush. Can I use a bug spray on it? Is it safe?
Chatham, Massachusetts
A. There are a few different insects that can feed on a Butterfly Bush. However, not all controls (sprays) work equally on different insects. It is best to monitor the plant and try to either catch the insect or photo the insect doing the feeding or at least of the damage to the leaves. A systemic insecticide, like Orthene, usually does the trick, but I do not advocate spraying any control measure without first seeing either the insect or a photo of the effected leaves.
I would be happy to review any photos you would like to email me.
Happy Gardening.
Todd A. Efing,
Nursery Manager
Van Putte Gardens
Rochester, New York
A. If you haven’t seen any insects on your butterfly bush, most likely it is some type of night-feeding beetle. I have had the same issue on my own butterfly bush in the past. There are several organic products you could use. The one I would recommend is a product called Spinosad. Spinosad is derived from a naturally occurring soil-dwelling bacterium. It has been used for many years as a safe, natural pesticide. Here on the Cape, it is used commercially to control the winter moth caterpillar, which you may be familiar with. Spinosad will also take care of a wide range of leaf-feeding beetles and various caterpillars. It is available in a ready-to-use spray or as a concentrate you mix with water and apply with a sprayer.
Good luck!
Wendy
Pine Tree Nursery & Landscaping
South Chatham, Massachusetts
