What's eating my mountain laurel?

Mountain laurel is plagued by lace bugs (Stephanitis pyrioides and related species), which cause the most widespread cosmetic damage. Borer larvae tunnel into older stems, and rhododendron borer is also reported. Deer heavily browse the foliage and flower buds. Slugs and black vine weevil target plants in shadier spots.

Pale, bleached or silvery stippling across the entire upper leaf surface; brown resin-like droplets on undersides Spray undersides with insecticidal soap, neem oil, or systemic insecticide in late spring; repeat mid-summer; move to shadier location to reduce stress

Sawdust-like frass at branch crotches; wilting, dying branches; entry holes in older wood Prune and destroy affected branches below the entry hole; apply systemic insecticide to bark in spring when adults emerge

Adults cut U-shaped notches in leaf margins; larvae kill roots causing sudden plant collapse Apply beneficial nematodes to soil in late summer; trap adults with sticky bands at night

Heavy browsing of foliage and flower buds, disfiguring plants and eliminating the spring display Use repellent sprays; install deer fencing; choose sheltered courtyard positions in high-pressure areas