What's eating my freesia 'pink marble'?

Freesia 'Pink Marble' is most at risk from aphids, which colonise stems and buds and can spread virus diseases that mottle the foliage. Thrips scar petals and spread colour-breaking viruses in freesias. Spider mites appear on warm, dry days. Good airflow and early action protect the fragrant blooms.

Colonies on flower stems and buds; honeydew, sooty mould, and risk of virus transmission causing foliage mottling. Spray promptly with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Control is critical because aphids spread freesia viruses. Remove and destroy virus-infected plants.

Silvery streaks on petals and leaves; petals may show colour breaking or brown edges. Remove affected flower heads. Apply spinosad in the evening. Avoid water stress, which makes plants more susceptible.

Fine webbing on undersides of leaves; pale stippling on foliage in warm or dry conditions. Increase humidity. Spray with neem oil or a suitable miticide. Keep plants well watered.