What's eating my geum 'scarlet tempest'?

Geum 'Scarlet Tempest' shares the same pest pressures as other Geum cultivars: geum sawfly larvae are the primary concern, stripping foliage in late spring. Aphids and slugs cause secondary damage. The plant is generally resilient and recovers well. Regular inspection from late May is the most effective control strategy.

Pale-green larvae defoliate leaves, eating everything except the mid-rib in severe infestations during late May–June. Inspect weekly from late May; hand-pick larvae and drop into soapy water. Encourage predatory insects and birds. Apply nematodes (Steinernema carpocapsae) to soil to target pupae.

Soft-bodied colonies cause curled, stunted shoots and coat foliage in sticky honeydew that encourages sooty mould. Knock off with water jets; treat with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Attract aphid predators by planting nectar-rich companion plants nearby.

Ragged holes chewed in leaves, mainly targeting newly emerging growth in spring. Use ferric phosphate pellets or wool-based barriers around the crown. Hand-collect on damp evenings. Avoid over-mulching directly around the plant base.