Will aphids kill my tickseed?

They rarely kill the plant, but they can significantly reduce the number of flowers and weaken the overall structure.

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

Large flowered tickseed: pests, causes and fixes

Check these first

Look closely at the underside of the leaves.
Check the flower buds for clusters of tiny insects.
Feel the leaves for a sticky residue.

Likely causes

Aphid Infestation
Most likely
How to tell: You see clusters of tiny green or black insects on the stems and undersides of leaves. The leaves may look sticky or curled.
What to do: Spray the aphids off with a strong stream of water from your hose. If they persist, apply insecticidal soap every 5 to 7 days until they are gone.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your large flowered tickseed

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 aphids are normal, but if they cover the entire plant or cause the buds to fail to open, you need to act.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the plant healthy with proper watering and avoid excessive nitrogen, which attracts aphids.

Large flowered tickseed: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your large flowered tickseed 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

Will aphids kill my tickseed?: They rarely kill the plant, but they can significantly reduce the number of flowers and weaken the overall structure.
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

Aphids

What are those tiny bugs on my Large flowered tickseed?