Can I use neem oil on my Eastern baccharis?

Yes, neem oil is effective against many common pests. Apply it in the early morning or late evening to avoid burning the leaves in the sun.

Are these pests going to kill my shrub?

It is unlikely. Eastern baccharis is a very resilient native plant and can usually withstand minor pest pressure without long term damage.

What are the bugs on my Eastern baccharis? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of the leaves for tiny clusters of insects.
Look for sticky residue on the leaves or stems.
Check the woody stems for small, hard bumps.

Likely causes

Aphids
Most likely
How to tell: You see small, soft bodied insects clustered on the undersides of leaves or on new growth. They often leave behind a sticky substance called honeydew.
What to do: Spray the plant with a strong blast of water from your hose to knock them off. If they persist, apply insecticidal soap once a week for 2 to 3 weeks.
Scale insects
Possible
How to tell: Small, hard, bump like growths appear on the stems or leaf veins. These bumps do not move and may look like little brown or tan shells.
What to do: Scrape the scales off gently with your fingernail or a soft brush. For larger infestations, apply horticultural oil according to the label instructions.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your eastern baccharis

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 bugs are usually not a problem, but you should act if you see wilting or yellowing leaves. It is normal to see a few insects in a garden setting.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the plant healthy with proper sun and water to help it resist infestations. Avoid using heavy fertilizers that encourage soft, succulent growth that attracts pests.

Eastern baccharis: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your eastern baccharis 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

Can I use neem oil on my Eastern baccharis?: Yes, neem oil is effective against many common pests. Apply it in the early morning or late evening to avoid burning the leaves in the sun.
Are these pests going to kill my shrub?: It is unlikely. Eastern baccharis is a very resilient native plant and can usually withstand minor pest pressure without long term damage.

What are the bugs on my Eastern baccharis?

Check these first

Likely causes

Aphids

Scale insects

Find out what's wrong with your eastern baccharis

When to worry

Stopping it coming back

Eastern baccharis: pests? Check yours with a photo

Questions people ask

Guides to these causes

More problems with Eastern baccharis