If you have Cycad or Cycas revoluta in your garden, it’s that time of year to watch out for the Blue Butterfly!
Spring sees lots of activity in the garden but how much activity is governed by temperatures. With longer Summers and shorter mid seasons the garden is experiences many changes. Depending on how much spring we experience and when things really start to warm up, the hatching of insects can occur earlier in the season then normal. One insect to get prepared for is the Blue Butterfly which takes advantage of the spiky foliage of the Cycad revoluta to lay its eggs. Little brown grubs hatch and are ferocious eaters, causing immense damage to the new shoots that emerge during the warmer months. This perfect timing is nature at it’s best but it is at this time of year when you need to be diligent to offer the best protection.
TREATMENT.
Some gardeners net the Cycad to stop the butterfly from laying their eggs, whilst White Oil and Neem Oil are known to stop the eggs from hatching. Treatment will need to be applied very regularly until the new shoots mature and harden to ensure no leaf damage.
However the least toxic and easiest way to treat them is to remove them by hand. If needed, wear some garden gloves and pick them off individually ensuring you also check the back of the fronds as well. You will need to repeat this regularly as new ones hatch and don’t leave it too long between inspections as they do a lot of damage very quickly and the plant will not recover leaving it looking quite undesirable.
It is very important to remember to check the plant everyday, if not twice and repeat the process of removal until you have beaten the life cycle. Damaged fronds may need to be removed. Remember to put this yearly event in your calendar because as always, prevention is better then cure. Left untreated your Cycad will eventually die after becoming an unsightly looking plant.
Alternative Approach.
If the whole process is too labour intensive then consider replacing your Cycad revoluta with another plant species. The Cardboard Palm (Zamia furfuracea) is a great option as this member of the Cycad family is not affected by the Blue Butterfly and they perform equally as well, providing a lush tropical look or formality to a garden when incorporated well.
Image: Zamia furfuracea
Need Some Support With The Plants In Your Garden?
Get The Support You Need With Us.
