What's eating my mahonia repens?

Mahonia repens, a low-growing groundcover Oregon grape, is mostly trouble-free but vulnerable to mahonia rust, aphids, and scale insects. Deer and rabbits sometimes nibble it despite spiny leaflets. Slugs may target tender new shoots in spring. It is generally hardier than taller Mahonia hybrids.

Orange pustules beneath leaflets and yellow spots above; leaf drop weakens groundcover density Remove infected material; improve drainage and air circulation; copper fungicide if outbreak is severe

Honeydew, sooty mould, and distorted growth on new shoots Hose off; insecticidal soap or neem oil; attract aphid predators with companion plantings

Ragged browsing of stems and leaflets, especially in winter when other food is scarce Deer repellent sprays reapplied after rain; physical fencing for small areas; plant in higher-traffic locations