What's eating my abelia 'edward goucher'?

Abelia 'Edward Goucher' is notably pest-resistant. When problems do occur, aphids are most likely on fresh growth in spring, and whitefly can build up in warm sheltered spots. Spider mites are a risk in hot, dry summers. Excellent overall garden performer that rarely needs pest intervention if planted in appropriate conditions.

Sticky honeydew on stems and lower leaves; soft colonies on shoot tips; distorted young growth. Strong water spray to dislodge; insecticidal soap; attract hoverflies by planting nectar-rich companions nearby.

Tiny white insects fly up when foliage is disturbed; leaves yellow and become coated in honeydew and sooty mold. Yellow sticky traps; insecticidal soap or neem oil sprayed to undersides of leaves; remove heavily affected growth.

Pale stippling on leaf surfaces; fine webbing on undersides; premature leaf drop in severe cases. Increase humidity and water stress; spray with water or a miticide; neem oil as a preventive in dry spells.