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Joyweed · Alternanthera polygonoides

Why are there bugs on my Alternanthera?

It is less common for Alternanthera to get pests, but they can occasionally appear if the plant is stressed or kept in poor airflow. Check the undersides of the leaves and the stems for any signs of movement or sticky residue.

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pests on a plant
Photo: Jules Verne Times Two, CC BY-SA 4.0

Check these first

  1. Inspect the undersides of leaves for tiny insects.
  2. Look for fine webbing near the stem joints.
  3. Check if the soil has been drying out too much between waterings.

Likely causes

  1. Aphids

    Possible

    How to tell: You will see tiny green or black insects clustering on new growth and flower buds. They often leave behind a sticky substance called honeydew.

    What to do: Spray the plant with a gentle stream of water to knock them off. Follow up with an application of insecticidal soap every 5 to 7 days until they are gone.

  2. Spider Mites

    Possible

    How to tell: Look for very fine webbing between the leaves and tiny yellow stippling on the foliage. These pests thrive in dry, hot conditions.

    What to do: Increase the humidity around your plant by misting it daily. Wipe the leaves down with a damp cloth and treat with neem oil once a week for 3 weeks.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your joyweed

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.

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When to worry

If you see heavy webbing or the leaves are starting to yellow and drop, take action immediately. A few stray bugs are easily managed with a quick wash.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your plant healthy with consistent moisture and good air circulation. Regularly wiping the leaves keeps dust away and makes it harder for pests to hide.

Joyweed: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your joyweed 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.

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Questions people ask

Can I use dish soap to kill the bugs?
You can use a very mild solution of water and a drop of fragrance free dish soap. Be sure to rinse the leaves thoroughly afterward to prevent burning.
Will these pests spread to my other plants?
Yes, pests can easily travel to nearby plants. Isolate your Alternanthera until you are sure the infestation is completely cleared.

Guides to these causes

More problems with Joyweed

Back to the Joyweed guide

This article was generated with AI on from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.