What's eating my pelargonium 'solferino'?

Pelargonium 'Solferino', a unique old hybrid type, is most vulnerable to aphids massing on its shoot tips and flower buds. Vine weevil larvae threaten container-grown plants and caterpillars can damage foliage and blooms. Spider mites occasionally attack in hot, dry summers. Its pelargonium scent provides some animal deterrence.

Infestations on growing tips and buds; honeydew deposit leads to sooty mould; flowers distorted or fail to open. Remove with water spray or insecticidal soap; treat early before colony establishment; attract natural predators.

Root damage by white grubs causes wilting; adult beetles leave scalloped notches in leaf margins after dark. Use nematode drenches in late summer; check container compost regularly and dispose of any grubs found.

Holes eaten in foliage and petals; some moth caterpillars web leaves together as shelter. Handpick and destroy; apply Bt spray in the evening when caterpillars are active; clear plant debris.

Fine pale stippling across leaf surface; bronze colouration and fine webs on undersides in dry heat. Mist foliage to raise humidity; apply insecticidal soap spray to undersides; use predatory mites if indoors.