What's eating my lonicera x heckrottii?

Goldflame honeysuckle (Lonicera × heckrottii) can be attacked by aphids on new growth and spider mites in dry summers. It is generally more tolerant than pure European species. Deer find the fragrant foliage attractive and may browse stems. Scale insects occasionally colonise older woody stems. Regular monitoring and good pruning hygiene keep this hybrid healthy.

Colonies at shoot tips cause sticky distorted growth; honeydew encourages black sooty mould and can reduce flowering. Jet-wash infested tips; apply insecticidal soap or neem oil; repeat weekly; encourage beneficial insects by planting companion flowers nearby.

Fine pale stippling across leaves turning yellow or bronze; webbing visible on undersides in warm dry weather. Water plant thoroughly in dry spells; apply neem oil or miticide to leaf undersides; increase air circulation through open pruning.

Ragged browsing of leafy stems and flower clusters; young plants can be set back significantly by a single visit. Protect new plants with wire cages; use commercial deer repellents (reapply after rain); site in a fenced area if deer pressure is high.