What's eating my witch hazel?

Witch hazel is relatively pest-resistant, but aphids, vine weevil, and scale insects do occur. The spidery winter flowers rarely attract pest pressure, and the thick bark discourages most borers. Aphids on new spring growth are the most likely issue, though infestations are typically mild and rarely require chemical control.

Sticky honeydew and sooty mould on leaves; light distortion of soft new shoot tips in spring Encourage parasitic wasps and ladybirds; spray with insecticidal soap or neem oil if colonies are heavy; healthy, well-fed plants usually outgrow minor attacks

Irregular notching around leaf margins caused by adult beetles at night; larvae in soil eat roots, causing sudden wilting Apply pathogenic nematodes (Steinernema kraussei) to moist soil in late summer or early autumn; use vine weevil killer granules in containers; check root zone if plant wilts unexpectedly

Flat, oval brown or yellow discs on stems and undersides of leaves; honeydew and sooty mould; weakened growth Scrape off small colonies with a soft brush; apply horticultural oil (winter wash) in dormancy to smother overwintering scales; use systemic insecticide for heavy infestations