What's eating my akebia trifoliata?

Three-leaf akebia is a vigorous climber with few serious pest problems. Aphids are the most likely visitor on spring shoot tips, and scale insects can settle on mature woody stems. Slugs and snails may graze new basal growth in wet weather. Established plants tolerate light pest pressure without significant impact on growth.

Soft new growth in spring becomes distorted and sticky; honeydew attracts ants and promotes sooty mould development Dislodge with a strong water jet; apply insecticidal soap or neem oil; rely on natural predators for light infestations

Waxy or shell-like deposits on mature stems reduce plant vigour; honeydew below supports sooty mould growth Prune and dispose of heavily affected stems; scrub off manually with soapy water; apply horticultural oil at crawler stage in late spring

Ragged bite marks on young emerging shoots and leaves at ground level, most severe in spring and after wet weather Scatter ferric phosphate slug pellets; lay grit or crushed eggshell mulch around base; hand-pick after dark; set beer traps in the vicinity