Will these bugs kill my Crosswort?

Usually not, but they can weaken it significantly if left unchecked. Treat them early to keep your plant thriving.

Can I use dish soap to kill them?

A very mild solution of water and a drop of dish soap can work, but be careful not to use too much. Commercial insecticidal soap is safer for the plant.

Why are there tiny bugs on my Crosswort? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of the leaves for small clusters of insects.
Check the stems for sticky residue.
Examine the soil moisture to see if the plant is stressed from dryness.

Likely causes

Aphid infestation
Most likely
How to tell: You will see small, soft bodied insects clustered on stems or the undersides of leaves. They often leave behind a sticky residue called honeydew.
What to do: Spray the plant with a gentle stream of water to knock them off. If they persist, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil once a week until they are gone.
Dry environmental conditions
Possible
How to tell: The plant is in a very dry spot with low humidity, which makes it more attractive to pests. The foliage may also look slightly dull.
What to do: Increase the humidity around your plant by grouping it with others. Ensure you are watering every 3 to 7 days when the top inch of soil feels dry.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your crosswort

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

It is serious if the leaves start curling or turning yellow from the sap loss. A few stray bugs are normal, but a full colony needs immediate attention.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your plant healthy with consistent watering and check the foliage regularly for early signs of pests.

Crosswort: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your crosswort 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 these bugs kill my Crosswort?: Usually not, but they can weaken it significantly if left unchecked. Treat them early to keep your plant thriving.
Can I use dish soap to kill them?: A very mild solution of water and a drop of dish soap can work, but be careful not to use too much. Commercial insecticidal soap is safer for the plant.

Guides to these causes

Aphids

Why are there tiny bugs on my Crosswort?