Can I use dish soap to kill the bugs?

You can use a very mild solution of water and a few drops of unscented dish soap. Be sure to rinse the leaves afterward to prevent residue buildup.

Will these pests kill my plant?

Most pests are just a nuisance, but a heavy infestation can weaken the plant over time. Treat them early to keep your plant thriving.

What are these bugs on my Wild Geranium? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Look closely at the undersides of the leaves.
Check for sticky residue on the stems.
Inspect the plant for fine webbing.

Likely causes

Aphids
Most likely
How to tell: You will see tiny green or black insects clustering on new growth and flower buds. They leave behind a sticky residue called honeydew.
What to do: Spray the plant with a gentle stream of water to knock the aphids off. For persistent infestations, use insecticidal soap or neem oil applied every 7 days.
Spider Mites
Possible
How to tell: Look for fine webbing between the leaves and tiny yellow stippling on the foliage. These pests thrive in dry, warm conditions.
What to do: Increase humidity around the plant by misting it or using a pebble tray. Wipe the leaves down with a damp cloth to remove mites and their webs.

Find out what's wrong with your wild geranium

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 bugs are usually manageable, but you should worry if the leaves start curling or turning yellow due to heavy feeding. If the plant is covered in webs or sticky sap, take action immediately.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the plant healthy with proper watering and ensure good air circulation to discourage pests from settling in.

Keep your wild geranium healthy from here

Save your plant in Pocket Botanist and you get care reminders timed for this plant, plus a care history that shows what worked. Identification and a health check are free.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Can I use dish soap to kill the bugs?: You can use a very mild solution of water and a few drops of unscented dish soap. Be sure to rinse the leaves afterward to prevent residue buildup.
Will these pests kill my plant?: Most pests are just a nuisance, but a heavy infestation can weaken the plant over time. Treat them early to keep your plant thriving.

What are these bugs on my Wild Geranium?