What's eating my clethra barbinervis?

Japanese clethra is relatively pest-resistant but aphids, spider mites, and scale insects can attack it, especially in dry summers. Deer and rabbits occasionally browse young shoots. The biggest practical threat is aphids clustering on new growth in spring. Good air circulation and avoiding excess fertilizer greatly reduce pest pressure.

Clusters of soft insects on new shoot tips; sticky honeydew leads to sooty mold; distorted young leaves. Knock off with a strong water jet; apply insecticidal soap or neem oil spray; encourage ladybugs and lacewings.

Fine stippling on leaf surfaces, tiny webbing on undersides; leaves yellow and drop in severe infestations. Increase humidity, spray undersides of leaves with water; use miticide or neem oil if infestation persists.

Ragged browsing of young shoots and flower buds, especially in spring. Use wire cage guards on young plants; apply deer repellent sprays; plant within a fenced area in high-pressure gardens.