What's eating my satsuki azalea?

Satsuki Azalea is most seriously damaged by azalea lace bug, which causes distinctive silver-grey stippling on upper leaf surfaces. Vine weevil larvae attack roots and are a major bonsai killer. Spider mites, azalea leafminers, and caterpillars also cause problems. Prompt identification and targeted treatment prevent long-term decline.

Upper leaf surface shows silver or grey stippling; dark tar-like excrement visible on leaf undersides Spray undersides of leaves with insecticidal soap or neem oil in spring; systemic insecticide for severe cases; improve air circulation

Adult notch leaf margins; larvae sever roots underground causing sudden wilting and plant collapse Apply entomopathogenic nematodes (Steinernema kraussei) to moist compost in late summer; use neonicotinoid drench where legally permitted

Fine pale stippling on leaves; webbing on undersides in dry, warm conditions; foliage becomes dull and bronzed Increase humidity around the plant; spray with insecticidal soap or miticide; repeat applications every 5–7 days

Leaves rolled and tied with silk; ragged feeding damage inside rolled leaf shelters Unroll and remove caterpillars by hand; spray Bt on young caterpillars before leaf rolling occurs