Are these bumps alive?

Yes, scale insects are alive and feed on the plant sap under their protective shells.

Do I need to use harsh chemicals?

Usually, horticultural oil or neem oil is enough to control scale without needing harsh pesticides.

Why are there pests on my Chinese holly? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Examine the stems for small, hard bumps.
Wipe the leaves with a damp cloth to check for sticky residue.
Look for ants, as they often farm scale insects.

Likely causes

Scale Insects
Most likely
How to tell: You see small, brown, or tan bumps that look like tiny shells on the stems. The leaves may also look sticky or yellow.
What to do: Scrape off the scale insects with a soft brush or your fingernail. Treat the plant with horticultural oil or neem oil every 7 to 10 days until they are gone.
Stress from Environment
Possible
How to tell: The plant is struggling with improper light or water, making it a target for pests. Pests prefer plants that are already weak.
What to do: Adjust your watering to the 7 to 14 day schedule and ensure the plant gets bright, indirect light. A healthy plant is much better at resisting pest attacks.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your chinese holly

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

If you see a heavy infestation covering most of the stems, the plant is in danger of losing vigor. Act quickly before the insects spread to other plants.

Stopping it coming back

Inspect your holly regularly during the growing season and keep it healthy with proper light and water.

Chinese holly: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your chinese holly 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 these bumps alive?: Yes, scale insects are alive and feed on the plant sap under their protective shells.
Do I need to use harsh chemicals?: Usually, horticultural oil or neem oil is enough to control scale without needing harsh pesticides.

Guides to these causes

Scale Insects

Why are there pests on my Chinese holly?