What's eating my sulphureum epimedium?

Sulphureum Epimedium is one of the toughest shade perennials for pest resistance — most common garden pests ignore it. Slugs occasionally nibble new leaves in spring, aphids may visit fresh growth, and vine weevil larvae can attack roots in poorly drained soil. Established clumps shrug off minor damage with ease.

Ragged holes or scalloped edges on emerging spring foliage; slime trails visible around the crown. Apply iron phosphate slug bait in early spring just as new growth emerges. Diatomaceous earth around the crown helps during dry weather.

Soft-bodied insects clustering on new shoots; leaves may curl slightly and feel sticky from honeydew. A strong water spray usually dislodges them. Insecticidal soap spray for persistent infestations; aphids rarely cause lasting harm to established plants.

Roots eaten by cream-colored grubs, causing the plant to wilt despite adequate watering; worst in containers. Apply beneficial nematodes (Steinernema kraussei) as a soil drench in late summer or early autumn. Avoid over-watering, which boosts larval survival.