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Love lies bleeding · Amaranthus caudatus

Why are there bugs on my Love lies bleeding?

Aphids are the most common visitors to this plant, often clustering on the tender new growth. Check the undersides of leaves and the flower tassels for these tiny insects.

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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 the leaves for small clusters.
  2. Look for sticky honeydew on the foliage.
  3. Check nearby plants to see if the infestation is spreading.

Likely causes

  1. Aphid Infestation

    Most likely

    How to tell: You see tiny green or black insects clustered on stems and new leaves. You might also notice a sticky residue called honeydew on the foliage.

    What to do: Spray the plant with a strong stream of water to knock the aphids off. For heavier infestations, apply insecticidal soap every 5 to 7 days until they are gone.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your love lies bleeding

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

A few aphids are manageable, but a heavy infestation can stunt growth and spread viruses. Act quickly when you first spot them.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your plant healthy with proper water and light, as stressed plants attract more pests. You can also encourage ladybugs in your garden to eat the aphids.

Love lies bleeding: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your love lies bleeding 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

Are aphids harmful?
Yes, they suck the sap from your plant and can cause leaves to curl or yellow. They also leave behind a sticky mess that can attract mold.
Can I use neem oil?
Yes, neem oil is effective against aphids. Apply it in the early morning or evening to avoid burning the leaves in the sun.

Guides to these causes

More problems with Love lies bleeding

Back to the Love lies bleeding 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.