Will aphids kill my Sneezewort?

They rarely kill the plant, but they can weaken it and prevent it from flowering properly. It is best to treat them as soon as you spot them.

Can I use dish soap to kill them?

You can use a very mild solution of water and a few drops of non detergent soap. Avoid using harsh degreasing soaps as they can damage the foliage.

Why are there bugs on my Sneezewort? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of the leaves for clusters of small insects.
Check if the leaves feel sticky to the touch.
Look for ants, as they often farm aphids.

Likely causes

Aphids
Most likely
How to tell: You will see clusters of tiny green or black insects on the stems and flower buds. The leaves may also look sticky or curled.
What to do: Spray the plant with a steady stream of water to knock them off. If they persist, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil every 5 to 7 days until they are gone.
General Stress
Possible
How to tell: Plants that are not getting enough sun or are struggling with soil moisture are more attractive to pests. The plant looks weak overall.
What to do: Move your Sneezewort to a spot with at least 6 hours of direct sun. Ensure you are watering every 3 to 7 days to keep the soil consistently moist.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your sneezewort

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

A few aphids are normal, but if they cover the flower buds and stunt growth, you must act quickly. It is rarely fatal, but it will ruin your blooms.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your plant healthy with proper sun and water to help it resist infestations. You can also encourage ladybugs in your garden, as they love to eat aphids.

Sneezewort: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your sneezewort and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Will aphids kill my Sneezewort?: They rarely kill the plant, but they can weaken it and prevent it from flowering properly. It is best to treat them as soon as you spot them.
Can I use dish soap to kill them?: You can use a very mild solution of water and a few drops of non detergent soap. Avoid using harsh degreasing soaps as they can damage the foliage.

Guides to these causes

Aphids

Why are there bugs on my Sneezewort?