Will these bugs kill my hydrangea?

Usually no, but they can stunt growth and cause leaves to yellow. It is best to treat them as soon as you spot them.

Can I use dish soap to kill them?

Use only mild, non-detergent soap mixed with water. Harsh chemicals can burn the leaves, so test a small area first.

Why are there bugs on my panicle hydrangea? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of the leaves for movement.
Look for sticky residue on the stems.
Check if the new growth is curling or distorted.

Likely causes

Aphids
Most likely
How to tell: You will see small green or black insects clustered on the tips of new growth. They often leave behind a sticky substance called honeydew.
What to do: Spray the plant with a strong stream of water from your garden hose to knock them off. If they persist, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil every 5 to 7 days until they are gone.
Spider Mites
Possible
How to tell: Look for fine webbing between leaves and a stippled, pale appearance on the foliage. These are most common during hot and dry weather.
What to do: Increase humidity around the plant by watering the base thoroughly. Use a horticultural oil spray to coat the leaves and disrupt their life cycle.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your panicle hydrangea

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

Small numbers of aphids are rarely fatal, but a heavy infestation can weaken the plant. Treat them early to prevent them from spreading to the whole shrub.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your hydrangea healthy with consistent watering and avoid over fertilizing with nitrogen, which encourages the soft growth aphids love.

Panicle Hydrangea: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your panicle hydrangea 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 hydrangea?: Usually no, but they can stunt growth and cause leaves to yellow. It is best to treat them as soon as you spot them.
Can I use dish soap to kill them?: Use only mild, non-detergent soap mixed with water. Harsh chemicals can burn the leaves, so test a small area first.

Why are there bugs on my panicle hydrangea?

Check these first

Likely causes

Aphids

Spider Mites

Find out what's wrong with your panicle hydrangea

When to worry

Stopping it coming back

Panicle Hydrangea: pests? Check yours with a photo

Questions people ask

Guides to these causes

More problems with Panicle Hydrangea