Shade Gardening: Astilbe question, 1 by Noreaster

Noreaster wrote:
Thanks, doss. I watered again and added more mulch and it has perked up.

But it's always something...I was noticing with my Bridal Veil astilbe that some of the very tips of the plumes that are just about to bloom seem to be dying. These were planted last year and are well watered in almost full shade. I looked at them really closely today and saw some kind of small insect on them that must be the culprit. Hopefully they won't do anymore serious damage before they really bloom. I had no idea Astilbe was something that bugs target. I couldn't get a good pic of the insects...but here is what they are causing.