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hedge bindweed · Calystegia sepium

Why are there bugs on my Hedge Bindweed?

Hedge Bindweed is a vigorous grower, but it can attract sap sucking insects like aphids or spider mites. Check the undersides of your leaves to see if these tiny visitors are causing the trouble.

Not sure it's this? Check a photo of your plant for free

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

Check these first

  1. Inspect the undersides of leaves for small moving dots.
  2. Look for fine webbing or sticky residue on the stems.
  3. Check if the new growth looks twisted or stunted.

Likely causes

  1. Aphids

    Most likely

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

    What to do: Spray the leaves with a steady stream of water to knock them off. If they persist, apply insecticidal soap once a week for 3 weeks.

  2. Spider Mites

    Possible

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

    What to do: Increase humidity around the plant by misting it regularly. Use neem oil or insecticidal soap to treat the foliage every 5 to 7 days until they are gone.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your hedge bindweed

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

Worry if the leaves start curling or dropping rapidly. A few bugs are normal, but a full infestation can weaken the plant quickly.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your plant healthy with consistent watering, as stressed plants are more attractive to pests. Regularly inspect the foliage during your weekly garden walk.

Hedge bindweed: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your hedge bindweed 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

Will these bugs kill my bindweed?
Usually no, as this plant is very hardy. However, a heavy infestation can stunt its growth and prevent it from flowering well.
Can I use household soap to kill them?
Avoid using harsh dish soaps, as they can burn the leaves. Stick to insecticidal soaps specifically made for garden use.

Guides to these causes

More problems with hedge bindweed

Back to the hedge bindweed 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.