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Wilting/damaged asters #871004

Asked May 31, 2024, 6:21 PM EDT

Hi! Some of my asters seem to be wilting at the tops with some white-looking residue. Some have bubbles/foam underneath leaves or at the crotch between the stems and leaves. It seems to only affect 5-10% of my total aster growth. Otherwise the remaining aster canes seem healthy and vigorous.

Multnomah County Oregon

Expert Response

Thank you for your question, Matt.  It is really difficult to make out much detail in your photos, since there is so much in the background.  Taking a photo against a piece of white paper would be helpful.  Having said that, curling of leaves is typically caused by insects such as Aster leafhopper, and aphids, among others.   One source indicates:  "Many insects feed on the foliage, including leaf beetles, the larvae of leaf-mining flies and fruit flies, plant bugs, stink bugs, lace bugs, aphids, leafhoppers, and the caterpillars of several butterfly and moth species. Other wildlife use asters to a limited degree."

 You'll need to examine the undersides of the leaves to see if you find the insect.  If you do, we can recommend control varieties.  Good luck!
An Ask Extension Expert Replied June 03, 2024, 5:59 PM EDT

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