Pocket Botanist
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Check these first
- Examine the undersides of leaves for tiny bugs.
- Look for fine webbing on the stems.
- Check for sticky residue on the foliage.
Likely causes
Aphids
Most likelyHow to tell: You see clusters of tiny green or black insects on the new growth or flower buds. They often leave behind a sticky substance called honeydew.
What to do: Wash the aphids off with a gentle stream of water from your sink or hose. If they persist, spray the plant with insecticidal soap every 5 to 7 days until they are gone.
Spider Mites
PossibleHow to tell: Fine webbing appears between the leaves or stems, and the leaves may look speckled or pale. These mites thrive in dry, hot conditions.
What to do: Increase the humidity around your plant by misting it or using a pebble tray. Wipe the leaves down with a damp cloth and treat with neem oil once a week for 3 weeks.
Find out what's wrong with your cigar plant
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
Small numbers of pests can be managed easily, but you should worry if the infestation covers the whole plant or if the leaves start to curl and yellow. Act quickly to prevent the bugs from spreading to your other plants.
Stopping it coming back
Keep your plant healthy with proper watering and good airflow. Regularly inspect the leaves during your watering routine to catch any pests early.
Cigar plant: pests? Check yours with a photo
Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your cigar plant 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.
Scan with your phone's camera to get the app
Or go to pocketbotanist.app/get on your phone
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Questions people ask
- Can I use household soap to kill the bugs?
- Avoid using harsh dish soaps, as they can damage the leaves. Use a dedicated insecticidal soap or a mild, non-detergent soap diluted in water.
- Should I isolate my plant if I see bugs?
- Yes, move the affected plant to a separate room immediately. This prevents the pests from jumping to your other healthy houseplants while you treat the issue.
Guides to these causes
More problems with Cigar plant
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.