What's eating my rhododendron 'cunningham's white'?

Rhododendron 'Cunningham's White' shares the classic rhododendron pest profile: vine weevil larvae are the biggest killer, lacebug bleaches the foliage in exposed sites, and deer browse buds and new growth in winter. Rhododendron leafhopper also spreads bud blast fungus, turning flower buds black before they open.

Irregular notches on leaf margins from adult feeding; larvae eat roots, leading to yellowing foliage and sudden plant death. Drench soil with Steinernema kraussei nematodes in late summer. For pot-grown plants, also apply imidacloprid drench; remove larvae found during autumn repotting.

A grey, pepper-like speckling on upper leaf surfaces and sticky brown excrement deposits on the undersides. Move plants to shadier spots where possible. Spray underside of leaves with pyrethrum, neem oil, or a systemic insecticide in late spring.

Minor leaf spotting; the real damage is spreading Bud Blast fungus (Seifertia azaleae) that turns buds black with black bristles. Prune and bin affected buds. Spray adults with pyrethrum in late summer to reduce disease spread.

Buds and young shoots torn off in winter, significantly reducing flowering. Protect with deer-repellent sprays reapplied monthly or install rabbit-proof fencing which also deters deer.