Firecracker Plant Bugs

Nematodes

• Nematodes are microscopic worms that live in the soil and feed on plant roots. Under the ground, an affected firecracker plant displays galls -- distorted, knot-like growths on the roots. Above the ground, signs of nematodes include decreased growth, wilting and yellowing leaves. The most damaging nematodes for firecracker plants and other ornamental plants are root knot nematodes. The pests are difficult to control and spread from plant to plant on shoe soles and garden tools. No chemical solutions are available. However, in some cases, amending the soil with peat moss or compost helps by improving moisture retention. Never plant in nematode-infested soil, and don't overwater, as run-off spreads the pests.

Spider Mites

• Mites are tiny pests usually too small to see with the naked eye. However, you can spot them by the fine webbing they leave on plants. A firecracker plant infested by spider mites displays tiny spots on the leaves, which eventually turn yellow and drop from the plant. Insecticidal soap is an effective treatment for spider mites. Mix the solution at a rate of 2 1/2 tablespoons of soap spray in 1 gallon of water, increasing the mixture up to 10 tablespoons per gallon for a heavy infestation. Drench the firecracker plant thoroughly to ensure the tops and bottoms of the leaves are coated.

Chewing Insects

• Chewing insects such as beetles, cutworms, caterpillars and other pests with mandibles, or jaws, are easy to spot because the pests chew ragged holes in stems and leaves of firecracker plants and other flowering shrubs. Many chewing insects, including caterpillars and cutworms, are easy to remove by hand. Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) is a natural bacterial that kills caterpillars, leafrollers and many types of beetles. When the pests eat the bacteria, they stop feeding within a day and die two or three days later. Mix Bt at a rate of 1/2 to 4 teaspoons in 1 gallon of water. Apply the substance using a hose-end sprayer or hand sprayer.

Prevention

• Healthy, well-managed plants are less susceptible to damage by pests. Keep the area around the plant neat by raking leaves, twigs and other plant debris. Remove affected stems and leaves and dispose of them properly. Never place affected plant parts on a compost pile. Avoid chemical pesticides, as the toxic chemicals kill beneficial predatory insects such as lady beetles, lacewings and parasitic wasps. Pesticides also kill important pollinators such as honey bees and butterflies.