What's eating my phlox paniculata 'starfire'?

Phlox paniculata 'Starfire' faces spider mites as its number-one pest in hot, dry summers. Phlox plant bugs cause stippled, brown, curling leaves, and leafhoppers produce similar pale spotting while spreading disease. Japanese beetles occasionally skeletonise flowers and foliage in areas where they are established.

Fine stippling and bronzing of leaves with webbing on undersides; foliage dries and drops in severe cases. Spray thoroughly with water to disrupt colonies; apply insecticidal soap or neem oil covering undersides of leaves. Repeat every 5–7 days in hot weather.

Small white or green spots on leaves that merge into large brown patches; leaves curl and drop. First sign is tiny pale specks. Remove and destroy infested stems promptly. Apply insecticidal soap or a pyrethrin spray. Reduce overcrowding to improve air flow.

Pale stippling across leaf surfaces; yellowing and premature leaf drop. Vectors of disease from plant to plant. Remove weeds and debris that harbour populations. Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil spray; use reflective mulch to deter adults.

Metallic green and bronze adults skeletonise leaves and shred flowers, leaving lacy, brown foliage. Hand-pick beetles into soapy water in the morning when they are sluggish. Avoid pheromone traps near plants. Apply neem oil as a feeding deterrent.