Many thanks for your reply. Now I have another question.

I suspect I've got vine weevils on a couple of astilbe and a small
rhododendron (the leaves are being eaten). Would it be a good idea to dig
them up to check for larvae, or should I just go ahead and use pest control
methods? I know what the adult weevils look like but I can't see myself
going out at night, armed with a torch, and squishing them!

Thanks again.



"Jim W" wrote in message
news:1fvsd8l.sqpfa3oqpgauN%00senetnospamtodayta@ma cunlimited.net...
Adrian Jones wrote:

I've just discovered (although it's not a surprise) vine weevil grubs in
my
permanent outdoor pots.

I know vine weevil are a common pests in pots. But will I also have
them in
my garden borders, or will they probably be confined just to the pots?

Also, if I replant the plants from the pots into the garden borders will
I
be just spreading the pest?

Thanks.

In answer to your Q.

YES
..

Biological treatments are available and are effective at above about 8c.
But you do need to be meticulous about application and make sure you
water every pot for at least 2 weeks afterwards.

Nematode control is available mail order from
http://www.organiccatalog.com/
among others.

Vine weevil is a recent, modern pest promoted by the methods of modern
Horticulture mainly due to the large movement of huge numbers of plants
across borders in peat based compost in plastic pots.

Regards
//
Jim