What's eating my pagoda dogwood?

Pagoda Dogwood (Cornus alternifolia) can be targeted by dogwood borer at wound sites, and scale insects colonise stems. Aphids feed on new growth, and deer browse the horizontal branching, which is characteristic of this species. Japanese beetles may skeletonise leaves in eastern US gardens. Overall pest pressure is moderate.

Larvae under bark at wounded sites cause gummosis and die-back; horizontal branch structure means trunk wounds are common during mowing. Guard trunks from mechanical damage; permethrin spray in late spring. Remove and destroy infested wood.

Encrusting scales on twigs reduce vigour; honeydew drip and sooty mould follow. Horticultural oil in late winter; systemic insecticide drench for heavy infestations on landscape trees.

Adults skeletonise leaves, leaving a brown lacy framework between veins in summer. Hand-pick into soapy water; neem oil spray as a deterrent; avoid pheromone traps placed near the tree.

Foliage and stems browsed; low-spreading branches are easily reached, making this species especially attractive to deer. Wire fencing or tree tube on young plants; deer-repellent sprays reapplied after rain.