What's eating my lamprocapnos spectabilis 'alba'?

The white-flowered 'Alba' bleeding heart is just as susceptible as the species to slugs, which shred its fine foliage in moist spring weather. Aphids may infest flower stems, and deer or rabbits can browse emerging growth. As the plant yellows and retreats in summer, pest pressure naturally drops away.

Irregular holes and tattered margins on delicate ferny leaves in spring; entire seedlings can be demolished overnight. Iron phosphate pellets around crowns; sharp grit mulch; hand-picking at night after rain.

Soft colonies on flower peduncles and new shoot tips; flowers may fail to open cleanly. Hose off; apply insecticidal soap or neem oil; encourage beneficial insects such as hoverflies.

Lush early spring foliage browsed, particularly on plants in partially shaded woodland garden settings. Deer repellent sprays; physical netting over clumps until foliage matures and becomes less palatable.