Q.All The Leaves Have Disappeared From My Astilbe.
The plant in question is at least 30 years old and normally has dense foliage and lots of tall white flowers for a week or two in the summer. It is almost in full flower as I write this. In the space of 2-3 days it has lost virtually all of it’s leaves and now all I have left are the tall stems with flowers on top. I went out to take a pic, and noticed a stem with a few leave left and noticed some small green caterpillars. Any ideas on what they are and how to get rid of them or prevent them returning.
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
Oh no! These caterpillars will destroy a plant, almost, overnight! The best way to handle them will be to introduce natural predators. There are a few ways to prevent them, though. This article will help:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/insects/prevent-caterpillars.htm