What's eating my clematis 'etoile violette'?

Clematis 'Etoile Violette' is most threatened by earwigs and aphids outdoors, while slugs and snails target young stems at ground level. Rabbits will browse fresh spring shoots. The fungal disease clematis wilt can kill stems overnight but aphids are the primary pest issue, distorting buds and new growth.

Clustered colonies on new shoots and buds; sticky honeydew, distorted growth, and sooty mold follow Blast off with a strong jet of water; apply insecticidal soap or neem oil; encourage ladybirds and lacewings

Ragged, irregular holes in petals and leaves, especially in sheltered spots; feeding happens at night Trap in upturned flower pots filled with straw; remove by hand at night; reduce dense debris around the base

Slimy trails and chewed, shredded stems on young spring growth at soil level Use wildlife-safe iron phosphate pellets; set beer traps; add a grit barrier around the crown