What’s Eating My Buddleia?

Question

I have a buddleia which I planted last spring. Last year and this year at this time all the new growth is getting eaten. Whatever it is eating it doesn’t stick to the new leaves, it is also eating through the stems. I have looked closely, and even used a magnifying glass but there is nothing on the effected shoots, or anywhere else on the plant. I have sprayed the plant with “Provado ultimate bug killer”, but it doesn’t have any effect. Any help and advice will be much appreciated.

Answer 1

Unfortunately, your photos did not come through. I am unable to see the damage, or any evidence left behind on the leaves, stems, and other parts of the plant.

It could be any butterfly species' caterpillar, though! This is the primary reason for the shrub being in most gardens will be to have something for caterpillars to feed on. Since this shrub is highly invasive… It usually poses no trouble at all. It will handle the most severe prunings, while coming back with a vengeance when the threat is gone.

I would recommend letting nature take its course. Better to practice, now, while the shrub is young. Once it matures, it may become uncontrollably invasive.

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/shrubs/butterfly-bush/butterfly-bush-care.htm