What's eating my red angel's trumpet?

Red Angel's Trumpet (Brugmansia sanguinea) grows in cooler highland conditions but still attracts caterpillars, aphids, and whiteflies. Hornworm-type caterpillars can cause rapid defoliation. Slugs and snails can damage lower leaves and stems at ground level. Spider mites become troublesome during dry periods. Scout frequently during the growing season for early pest intervention.

Ragged chewing damage on leaves and stems; droppings visible below affected growth Hand-pick; apply Bt spray to leaf surfaces; spinosad for persistent populations

Dense colonies on soft new growth and flower buds; sticky honeydew and sooty mould Strong water spray; neem oil or insecticidal soap; companion planting with marigolds to deter

Ragged holes in lower leaves and stems; silvery slime trails on soil and foliage Apply iron phosphate slug pellets around the base; use beer traps; remove debris where slugs shelter

White insects under leaves; yellowing and honeydew accumulation on foliage Yellow sticky traps; insecticidal soap spray; pyrethrin-based products for severe infestations