What's eating my coconut-scented geranium?

Coconut-Scented Geranium suffers from the same Pelargonium pest suite as its relatives: vine weevil grubs in containers, spider mites in dry spells, and aphids on new growth. This compact trailing species is also browsed by slugs and snails at ground level. Its scent deters some insects but not root pests.

Grubs devour roots, causing sudden collapse; adults cut neat notches around leaf edges overnight Drench compost with nematodes (Steinernema kraussei) in late summer. Repot annually and inspect roots for white grubs. Use copper tape or sticky barriers on pots.

Dense colonies on soft shoot tips; honeydew makes foliage sticky and promotes black sooty mould Rub off by hand or spray with insecticidal soap. Hose down outdoor plants. Avoid excess nitrogen fertiliser that encourages the soft, aphid-prone growth.

Irregular holes chewed in leaves and stems at soil level, especially on low-growing trailing growth; silvery slime trails Scatter iron phosphate pellets around the base. Use copper tape on raised beds or pots. Hand-pick at night or after rain. Avoid thick mulches where slugs shelter.