What's eating my simple-leaf astilbe?

Simple-leaf astilbe (Astilbe simplicifolia) is a compact species equally susceptible to Japanese beetles and slugs as its larger relatives. Its low, neat mounds may escape the heaviest deer browsing, but slugs readily attack the glossy emerging foliage in spring. Beetles remain the main summer threat where they are present.

Skeletonizes foliage, especially the distinctive glossy leaves, leaving lacy brown remnants Hand-pick adults; row cover during peak season; apply beneficial nematodes (Heterorhabditis bacteriophora) to soil for grub control

Holes eaten into young leaves and through stem bases in cool, moist conditions Iron phosphate bait; hand-pick at dusk; improve drainage and remove mulch directly against the crown