What's eating my smooth hydrangea 'incrediball'?

Smooth Hydrangea 'Incrediball' is generally pest-resistant, but aphids cluster on soft new growth and four-lined plant bugs leave distinctive round brown spots on leaves in spring. Japanese beetles skeletonize foliage mid-summer. Rabbits and deer may gnaw young stems in winter or early spring. Inspect shoot tips weekly during the growing season.

Sticky, distorted shoot tips; honeydew residue attracts ants and sooty mold Knock off with a firm water spray; apply insecticidal soap if the infestation persists after 3–4 days.

Rows of small, round, sunken brown or tan spots on upper leaf surfaces in late spring Nymphs hatch in May–June; spray insecticidal soap or pyrethrin at first sign. Adults disperse quickly so timing is important.

Lacy skeletonized leaves in June–August; metallic beetles feeding in groups Hand-pick early morning into soapy water. Neem oil as a feeding deterrent; repeat weekly.

Clean-cut stems close to the ground, especially on young plants in winter or early spring Wrap stems with hardware cloth or rabbit-proof spiral guards. Apply repellent granules around the drip line.