What's eating my pelargonium graveolens 'lady plymouth'?

Pelargonium graveolens 'Lady Plymouth', a cream-edged scented-leaf herb type, is most vulnerable to aphids on its shoot tips. Its intense rose-geranium fragrance significantly deters deer and rabbits. Spider mites are a secondary concern in dry or indoor conditions. Vine weevil in containers and occasional caterpillar feeding complete the pest picture.

Soft-bodied insects cluster on new growth and stem tips; honeydew leads to sooty mould on attractive variegated leaves. Remove with water spray or insecticidal soap; apply neem oil as a systemic deterrent; check plants weekly.

Pale stippling and fine webbing on undersides of leaves; most likely in warm, dry or indoor-overwintered conditions. Mist foliage regularly; spray leaf undersides with insecticidal soap; introduce Phytoseiulus persimilis in greenhouses.

Larvae eat roots leading to container plant collapse; adult beetles create notched scallop cuts in leaf margins overnight. Nematode soil drench in late summer; check compost when repotting in spring; use preventive vine weevil products.

Irregular holes chewed in aromatic leaves; less frequent than on unscented pelargoniums but not entirely absent. Inspect regularly and handpick larvae; Bt spray for heavier infestations; clear plant debris around the base.