Pest identification
What's eating my giant dogwood?
Aphids
Signs: Clusters of tiny insects on new growth; curled, sticky leaves
Control: Blast off with water, encourage ladybirds, or use insecticidal soap.
Caterpillars
Signs: Chewed, ragged holes in leaves; visible droppings
Control: Pick off by hand or treat with Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis).
Slugs and snails
Signs: Irregular holes and slime trails, worst on young growth
Control: Use barriers, traps, or remove by hand after dark.
Keep giant dogwood pest-free
Healthy plants resist pests best. Get the basics right:
Giant Dogwood pests — FAQ
What is eating my giant dogwood?
Outdoors, giant dogwood is most often damaged by sap-sucking aphids, leaf-chewing caterpillars, and slugs or snails — and, in many gardens, by browsing animals such as rabbits and deer. Inspect new growth regularly and act early, before a small problem becomes an infestation.
How do I get rid of aphids on giant dogwood?
Clusters of tiny insects on new growth; curled, sticky leaves Blast off with water, encourage ladybirds, or use insecticidal soap.
How do I get rid of caterpillars on giant dogwood?
Chewed, ragged holes in leaves; visible droppings Pick off by hand or treat with Bt (Bacillus thuringiensis).
How do I get rid of slugs and snails on giant dogwood?
Irregular holes and slime trails, worst on young growth Use barriers, traps, or remove by hand after dark.