What's eating my bigleaf hydrangea 'nikko blue'?

Bigleaf Hydrangea 'Nikko Blue' is most threatened by aphids, which cluster on new shoots and distort foliage. Japanese beetles skeletonize leaves in summer, while slugs shred young growth at the base and spider mites cause stippling in hot, dry spells. Knock aphids off with a strong water spray and hand-pick beetles early morning.

Sticky honeydew, curled or puckered new shoots, ants attending colonies on stem tips Blast off with a strong jet of water; repeat daily for a week. Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil for persistent infestations.

Skeletonized leaves with only the veins remaining; metallic green/copper beetles visible on foliage Hand-pick beetles into soapy water early morning when they are sluggish. Use row covers during peak emergence (June–August). Avoid Japanese beetle traps near the plant.

Ragged holes in leaves, especially low on the plant and on young growth; slime trails visible at night or after rain Set out iron-phosphate bait (Sluggo) around the base. Remove mulch from direct contact with stems. Hand-collect at dusk or after watering.

Fine stippling or bronzing on upper leaf surfaces; fine webbing on undersides in severe cases Mist foliage to raise humidity. Apply insecticidal soap or horticultural oil to the undersides of leaves, repeating every 7 days for 3 applications.