Will these bugs kill my plant?

Usually no, but a heavy infestation can stunt growth and weaken the plant. It is best to manage them early.

Yes, neem oil is effective against aphids. Apply it in the evening to avoid burning the leaves in the sun.

Why are there bugs on my prickly lettuce? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of the leaves for tiny moving insects.
Look for sticky residue on the stems.
Check if ants are climbing the plant.

Likely causes

Aphids
Most likely
How to tell: You will see clusters of tiny green or black insects on the stems and new leaves. They often leave behind a sticky residue called honeydew.
What to do: Spray the plant with a strong stream of water from your hose to knock them off. If they persist, apply insecticidal soap directly to the affected areas every 5 to 7 days.
General infestation
Possible
How to tell: Leaves may look distorted or yellowed where the pests have been feeding. You might also see ants crawling on the plant, as they farm aphids for their honeydew.
What to do: Remove the most heavily infested leaves by hand to reduce the population. Keep the plant healthy with proper sun and water to help it resist further damage.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your prickly lettuce

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

It is normal to see a few bugs on a wild plant, but you should act if the leaves start curling or turning yellow. If the entire plant is covered, it may be too late to save the foliage.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your plant in full sun and avoid overfertilizing, as lush growth attracts more aphids.

Prickly lettuce: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your prickly lettuce 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 plant?: Usually no, but a heavy infestation can stunt growth and weaken the plant. It is best to manage them early.
Can I use neem oil?: Yes, neem oil is effective against aphids. Apply it in the evening to avoid burning the leaves in the sun.

Guides to these causes

Aphids

Why are there bugs on my prickly lettuce?