What's eating my giant honeysuckle?

Giant honeysuckle (Lonicera hildebrandiana) is a large tropical climber that shares the Lonicera family's susceptibility to aphids and spider mites, with scale insects a risk on its substantial woody stems. Grown as a conservatory or warm-climate garden plant, aphids on new growth are the most likely problem; the plant's vigour helps it recover quickly.

Soft-bodied colonies on shoot tips and new growth cause curling, distortion and honeydew deposits that encourage sooty mould Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil at first signs; knock off with a strong water jet; encourage natural predators such as ladybirds

Fine pale stippling across large leaves with webbing beneath; more prevalent in warm, dry indoor or conservatory conditions Raise humidity; mist foliage regularly; apply horticultural oil or insecticidal soap to leaf undersides; introduce predatory mites under glass

Waxy or armoured scales on older bark and stems; weakens growth, causes yellowing and die-back on established woody framework Scrape off manually with a stiff brush; apply horticultural oil in late winter; systemic insecticide for severe or recurring infestations