What's eating my clematis viticella?

Clematis viticella and its cultivars are among the most pest-resistant clematis, largely immune to wilt. The main threats are aphids on new spring growth, slugs and snails at the base, and caterpillars on summer foliage. Rabbits may nibble young plants in exposed gardens. Established plants shrug off most pressure with minimal intervention.

Sticky, distorted shoot tips in spring; green or black colonies at growing points Strong water jet, insecticidal soap, or neem oil; plant usually outgrows light attacks quickly

Chewed and notched stems and leaves near soil level, especially in wet spring weather Iron phosphate pellets, gritty mulch around the crown, hand-picking under torchlight at night

Irregular holes or skeletonised patches in summer foliage; silk webbing may be visible Hand-pick and destroy; Bt spray for persistent infestations; check leaf undersides for eggs

Clean-cut young stems close to the ground, especially on recently planted specimens Protect the base with wire mesh guards or spiral tree guards until the plant is established