Are these pests harmful to me?

No, aphids and leaf miners are harmless to humans. They only target your citrus tree.

Yes, neem oil is an effective organic treatment for many citrus pests. Apply it in the evening to avoid burning the leaves in the sun.

Mandarin orange: pests, causes and fixes

Check these first

Examine the undersides of new leaves.
Look for sticky residue on the foliage.
Check for winding trails on the leaf surface.

Likely causes

Aphids
Most likely
How to tell: You see clusters of tiny green or black insects on new, tender leaves. They often leave behind a sticky substance called honeydew.
What to do: Spray the leaves with a strong stream of water to knock them off. If they persist, use insecticidal soap once a week until they are gone.
Citrus leaf miner
Possible
How to tell: You notice winding, silvery trails inside the leaf tissue. This is caused by larvae tunneling through the leaves.
What to do: Prune off heavily infested leaves and dispose of them in the trash. Avoid over fertilizing, as this encourages the soft new growth they prefer.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your mandarin orange

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 pests are manageable, but a heavy infestation can stunt growth. Treat them as soon as you spot them to prevent spread.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your tree healthy with proper light and water, as stressed plants attract more pests. Check your tree weekly for early signs.

Mandarin orange: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your mandarin orange 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

Are these pests harmful to me?: No, aphids and leaf miners are harmless to humans. They only target your citrus tree.
Can I use neem oil?: Yes, neem oil is an effective organic treatment for many citrus pests. Apply it in the evening to avoid burning the leaves in the sun.

Guides to these causes

Aphids

How do I get rid of pests on my Mandarin orange?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your mandarin orange?