Common marsh bedstraw: pests, causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of leaves and along the stems.
Look for sticky honeydew residue on the foliage.
Check nearby plants for signs of the same insects.

Likely causes

Aphid infestation
Most likely
How to tell: You see small green or black insects clustered on the stems and new growth. You might also notice a sticky residue on the leaves.
What to do: Spray the aphids off with a strong stream of water from a hose. If they persist, apply insecticidal soap once a week until they are gone.

Find out what's wrong with your common marsh bedstraw

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 manageable, but a heavy infestation can stunt growth and spread disease. If the plant is covered in bugs, take action immediately.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the plant well watered and healthy, as aphids prefer stressed plants. Regularly rinse the foliage with water to discourage them from settling.

Common marsh bedstraw: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your common marsh bedstraw 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 aphids harmful?: They drain the plant of nutrients and can cause leaves to curl or yellow.
Do I need chemicals?: Usually, a simple water spray or insecticidal soap is enough to handle them.

Guides to these causes

Aphids

Why are there bugs on my common marsh bedstraw?