Growli

Pest identification

What's eating my geranium phaeum 'lily lovell'?

Slugs and snails

Signs: Holes and shredded edges on the large soft leaves, particularly damaging to new spring growth and in wet conditions

Control: Apply ferric phosphate pellets regularly around crowns; use Phasmarhabditis nematodes in warm moist soil; place gravel mulch as a deterrent

Vine weevil

Signs: Adults cut notches in leaves; larvae feed on roots causing sudden wilting and crown death

Control: Nematode soil drench (Steinernema kraussei) in late summer; check crowns for white c-shaped grubs when dividing

Aphids

Signs: Clusters on soft new growth producing honeydew; can cause mild leaf curl; usually self-limiting

Control: Pinch off infested tips; apply insecticidal soap; encourage ladybirds and lacewings

Keep geranium phaeum 'lily lovell' pest-free

Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:

Geranium phaeum 'Lily Lovell' pests — FAQ

What is eating my geranium phaeum 'lily lovell'?

Geranium phaeum 'Lily Lovell' grows in shade and moisture, creating ideal conditions for slugs and snails — the primary pest threat. Vine weevil larvae can destroy roots in shadier beds. This cultivar's lush large leaves are especially attractive to slugs, so consistent monitoring and control in spring is important.

How do I get rid of slugs and snails on geranium phaeum 'lily lovell'?

Holes and shredded edges on the large soft leaves, particularly damaging to new spring growth and in wet conditions Apply ferric phosphate pellets regularly around crowns; use Phasmarhabditis nematodes in warm moist soil; place gravel mulch as a deterrent

How do I get rid of vine weevil on geranium phaeum 'lily lovell'?

Adults cut notches in leaves; larvae feed on roots causing sudden wilting and crown death Nematode soil drench (Steinernema kraussei) in late summer; check crowns for white c-shaped grubs when dividing

How do I get rid of aphids on geranium phaeum 'lily lovell'?

Clusters on soft new growth producing honeydew; can cause mild leaf curl; usually self-limiting Pinch off infested tips; apply insecticidal soap; encourage ladybirds and lacewings