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California buckwheat · Eriogonum fasciculatum

What are these bugs on my California buckwheat?

Aphids are common visitors to California buckwheat, especially on new spring growth. They are small insects that cluster on stems and leaves, so look closely at the tips of the plant.

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

Check these first

  1. Look at the undersides of new leaves for clusters of tiny bugs.
  2. Check for sticky honeydew residue on the foliage.
  3. Observe if ants are patrolling the stems.

Likely causes

  1. Aphid Infestation

    Most likely

    How to tell: Small green or black insects clustering on new growth and sticky residue on leaves.

    What to do: Spray the plant with a strong stream of water to knock them off. If they persist, use insecticidal soap once a week until they are gone.

  2. Ant Activity

    Possible

    How to tell: Ants crawling up and down the stems of the plant.

    What to do: Ants often protect aphids, so removing the aphids will usually discourage the ants. You can place sticky barriers around the base of the plant to stop ants from climbing.

When to worry

A few aphids are normal in spring, but you should worry if they cover the entire plant or cause the new growth to curl and stunt.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the plant healthy with full sun and proper spacing to ensure good airflow.

Not sure which one it is? Photograph your california buckwheat.

This page lists the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at your actual leaf 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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Questions people ask

Will aphids kill my buckwheat?
Usually no, but they can weaken the plant and cause distorted growth. It is best to manage them early.
Should I use chemical pesticides?
Avoid harsh chemicals as they can harm beneficial insects like ladybugs that eat aphids. Stick to water sprays or insecticidal soaps.

More problems with California buckwheat

Back to the California buckwheat guide

This article was generated with AI from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.