What's eating my lobelia erinus 'riviera lilac'?

Lobelia erinus 'Riviera Lilac' is a compact mound-forming annual susceptible to slugs on young transplants, aphids on tender shoots, and vine weevil when grown in containers. Slugs and snails are the most damaging pest, especially shortly after planting out in spring when plants are small and vulnerable.

Seedlings and newly planted clumps eaten to soil level overnight; trailing side shoots also targeted in wet weather. Set out iron phosphate bait at planting; use copper tape on pot rims; hand-pick at night; avoid overhead watering in the evening.

Clusters of green or black aphids on young shoot tips causing distortion and sooty mould where honeydew has dripped. Spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil; encourage natural enemies; pinch out the most heavily colonised growing tips.

Larvae feed on roots in container compost through winter and spring, causing plants to fail to establish or collapse mid-season. Apply Steinernema kraussei nematode drench to containers; refresh compost annually and inspect for white C-shaped larvae before replanting.