Pests on Cosmos Plants - How to Identify and Control Them

Cosmos plants are a popular choice for gardeners because of their beautiful flowers and easy-to-grow nature. However, like all plants, cosmos are susceptible to pests that can cause damage to the plant or even kill it. In this article, we’ll discuss some common pests that can affect cosmos plants and how to identify and control them.

1. Aphids

Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that suck the juices out of plants. They can be found on the leaves, stems, and flowers of cosmos plants. You may notice that the leaves are curling or turning yellow, which is a sign of aphid infestation. To control aphids, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can also introduce natural predators such as ladybugs or lacewings to your garden, as they feed on aphids.

Aphids on cosmos plants

2. Spider Mites

Spider mites are tiny pests that suck the moisture out of the leaves of cosmos plants, causing them to dry out and turn brown. They are difficult to see with the naked eye, but you may notice tiny webs on the undersides of the leaves. To control spider mites, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can also increase the humidity around the plants by misting them with water.

Spider mites on cosmos plants

3. Whiteflies

Whiteflies are small, white, moth-like insects that feed on the undersides of the leaves of cosmos plants. They excrete a sticky substance called honeydew, which can attract ants and other pests. To control whiteflies, you can use insecticidal soap or neem oil. You can also introduce natural predators such as parasitic wasps or ladybugs to your garden.

Whiteflies on cosmos plants

4. Cutworms

Cutworms are the larvae of certain species of moths. They feed on the stems of young cosmos plants, cutting them off at ground level. You may notice that the plants are wilting or dying. To control cutworms, you can use Bacillus thuringiensis (BT), a naturally occurring bacteria that kills the larvae. You can also place collars made of cardboard or newspaper around the base of the plants to prevent the cutworms from reaching them.

Cutworms on cosmos plants

5. Slugs and Snails

Slugs and snails are mollusks that feed on the leaves of cosmos plants, leaving large holes in them. They are most active at night and on damp, rainy days. To control slugs and snails, you can use slug bait or create a barrier around the plants using copper tape or crushed eggshells. You can also handpick them off the plants and dispose of them.

Slugs and snails on cosmos plants

If you’re growing cosmos plants, it’s important to be aware of the potential pests that can damage or kill them. By identifying these pests early and taking action to control them, you can keep your cosmos plants healthy and thriving.

Aphids, spider mites, whiteflies, cutworms, slugs, snails