What's eating my nannyberry?

Nannyberry is heavily targeted by viburnum leaf beetle, which is especially destructive on native viburnums like this one. Aphids, scale, and powdery mildew (a fungal issue often confused with pest damage) are secondary problems. Birds love the berries but cause no harm to plant health.

Severe skeletonization of foliage by larvae in spring, followed by adult feeding holes; heavy infestations over two to three years can kill the plant Prune out egg-laying sites (raised bumps on twig tips) in late winter; apply spinosad to larvae in May–June; plant in sunny, well-ventilated spots

Curling, cupped new growth; sticky honeydew drip attracts ants and promotes sooty mold growth Hose off with water; use insecticidal soap; tolerate low populations as they support beneficial predators

Brown or gray shell-like bumps on stems; weakened growth and yellowing leaves when populations are high Prune heavily infested stems; apply dormant horticultural oil spray before bud break in early spring