Can you help me identify a pest that causes damage very similar to root maggots, but does not resemble them? The damage is primarily in beds of Aconitum. Stems weaken and yellow. Then by tugging very lightly on the stem, the whole stem with the tuber-like base comes up showing that the fine roots are gone. Tuber has lesions and a small number of soft-bodied, pale, many legged insects (?). They are about the same length as a root maggot but somewhat slimier. Picture a fast moving, elongated mealy bug. Thanks for your help!
Sounds like symphylans. This article will have more information: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/garden-symphylan-small-white-worm-like-bugs-in-the-soil.htm
I live in zone 7. I have tulips for the spring, lilies for the summer and snowdrops. What I can't figure out is if these Winter Aconites will bloom before, during or after the snowdrops. I just want SOMETHING to bloom in the actual winter. Our coldest months are December-March. Around January/February is when we get the winter ice storms. I have a small flower garden in front of my patio and it gets full sun, from sunrise until slightly after 1pm. Please help with information on these, or any other advice for anything that will bloom in very cold weather. Thank you kindly, Teresa Bright
The Winter Aconites will likely bloom in sucession with the Snow Drops.
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/winter-aconite/growing-winter-aconite-plants.htm
Should this plant be cut down to ground level in the autumn?
I don't recommend handling the plant. If you have to, then wear gloves, as this plant is highly toxic. You don't need to cut them down, but if you do then do it after the growth dies off. Just make sure to dispose of the plant matter to make sure there is no accidental contact with the plant.
Here is an article with more information on their care: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/flowers/monkshood/growing-monkshood-plants.htm
I would like to plant it around a tree near the street and near neighbors.
Yes, the whole plant is toxic but especially the tubers, so if you have small children or pets, you may want to consider another groundcover. It can cause nausea and vomiting if eaten as well as visual problems.
https://wimastergardener.org/article/winter-aconite-eranthis-hyemalis/
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/bulbs/winter-aconite/growing-winter-aconite-plants.htm