What's eating my rhododendron 'pjm'?

Rhododendron 'PJM' is a tough compact cultivar, but vine weevil, rhododendron lacebug, and deer browsing remain its main threats. Vine weevil root damage is the most damaging. 'PJM' is more cold-hardy and sun-tolerant than many rhododendrons, reducing (but not eliminating) lacebug risk.

Adults notch leaf edges; larvae consume roots through winter, causing the plant to collapse suddenly in spring. Apply pathogenic nematodes (Steinernema kraussei) to moist soil in late August–September. Inspect potted plants and remove larvae by hand in autumn.

Pale grey stippling on the upper leaf surface; dark varnish-like spots from excrement on the leaf underside. Site in part-shade to deter lacebug. Spray undersides of leaves with insecticidal soap or pyrethrum in late spring and again in midsummer.

Flower buds and tender new growth stripped in autumn and winter, with ragged, torn stem ends. Use deer fencing or tree guards. Apply deer-repellent spray to stems and foliage, especially October–March.