Pest identification
What's eating my geranium phaeum 'samobor'?
Slugs and snails
Signs: Holes and torn edges on the ornamental foliage, spoiling the dark-banded leaf pattern; worst in spring on emerging growth
Control: Ferric phosphate pellets around each plant; biological nematodes (Phasmarhabditis) when soil is above 5°C; night patrols with a torch to hand-pick
Vine weevil
Signs: Notched leaf lobes; grubs destroy fibrous roots under the crown causing collapse, especially in autumn
Control: Steinernema kraussei nematode drench in late summer; inspect roots when lifting plants for division
Aphids
Signs: Soft pale clusters on new shoot tips; sticky honeydew; seldom causes severe damage
Control: Blast off with water; spot-treat with insecticidal soap; introduce or encourage aphid predators
Keep geranium phaeum 'samobor' pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Geranium phaeum 'Samobor' pests — FAQ
What is eating my geranium phaeum 'samobor'?
Geranium phaeum 'Samobor' is prized for its striking dark-zoned foliage. Slugs and snails are the top pest, causing real cosmetic damage to the decorative leaves in shaded damp settings. Vine weevil targets the roots and crown, and aphids may appear on soft new shoots in spring.
How do I get rid of slugs and snails on geranium phaeum 'samobor'?
Holes and torn edges on the ornamental foliage, spoiling the dark-banded leaf pattern; worst in spring on emerging growth Ferric phosphate pellets around each plant; biological nematodes (Phasmarhabditis) when soil is above 5°C; night patrols with a torch to hand-pick
How do I get rid of vine weevil on geranium phaeum 'samobor'?
Notched leaf lobes; grubs destroy fibrous roots under the crown causing collapse, especially in autumn Steinernema kraussei nematode drench in late summer; inspect roots when lifting plants for division
How do I get rid of aphids on geranium phaeum 'samobor'?
Soft pale clusters on new shoot tips; sticky honeydew; seldom causes severe damage Blast off with water; spot-treat with insecticidal soap; introduce or encourage aphid predators