What's eating my water avens?

Water Avens grows in moist, partially shaded conditions that favor slug damage on the foliage and crown. Vine weevil grubs attack the roots, particularly in wetter soils. Aphids may appear on flower stems, and in garden settings deer will graze the low mounding foliage. Overall it is tougher than most Geum species.

Irregular holes in leaves and damage to emerging crowns; moist conditions where Geum rivale thrives also favor slug populations. Iron phosphate pellets; coarse grit mulch around crowns; encourage hedgehogs and ground beetles as natural predators.

Grubs feed on fibrous roots and crown in autumn and winter; plant wilts and detaches from the soil when lifted. Apply nematodes (Steinernema kraussei) to moist soil in late summer; avoid poorly drained conditions that stress plants and favor grub activity.

Small colonies on flower stems in late spring and early summer; mild honeydew deposits; generally a lesser threat on this species. Tolerate small colonies; spray insecticidal soap only if heavy; water jet dislodges most populations effectively.