What's eating my skimmia temptation?

Skimmia japonica 'Temptation' shares the same pest profile as the species: spider mites are the most frequent problem, causing bronze stippling on leaves in dry conditions. Vine weevil is a significant risk in container culture, where grubs can kill roots undetected over winter. Maintain consistent moisture and shade to reduce mite flare-ups.

Stippled, yellowing or bronzed leaves, particularly on the upper surface; fine silk webbing on leaf undersides during heavy infestations. Improve air humidity and ensure adequate watering. Use predatory mites or acaricide sprays as needed, avoiding broad-spectrum pesticides.

Adult weevils create notched leaf margins; larvae eat roots through autumn and winter, causing wilting or sudden death in containers. Drench containers with nematodes (Steinernema kraussei) in late summer while soil is warm. Check root balls when repotting.

Soft-bodied insects cluster on new growth, causing leaf curl and deposits of sticky honeydew. Knock off with water jets; apply insecticidal soap. Encourage ladybirds and lacewings as natural predators.