Will aphids kill my sweet peas?

They can weaken the plant significantly and spread viruses, so it is best to treat them as soon as you notice them. Left unchecked, they will stunt your blooms.

Can I use neem oil on sweet peas?

Yes, neem oil is effective against both aphids and some fungal issues. Apply it in the evening to avoid harming beneficial pollinators like bees.

Why are there bugs on my sweet pea plants? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of the leaves for tiny clusters of insects.
Look for slimy trails on the soil or chewed edges on the leaves.
Check the new growth for sticky residue.

Likely causes

Aphids
Most likely
How to tell: You will see tiny green or black insects clustering on new growth and flower buds. They often leave behind a sticky residue called honeydew.
What to do: Spray the affected areas with a strong blast of water from your hose to knock them off. If they persist, apply insecticidal soap every 5 to 7 days until they are gone.
Slugs and Snails
Most likely
How to tell: Look for irregular holes chewed in the leaves and slimy trails left on the soil or stems. They usually feed at night and hide during the day.
What to do: Handpick them off the plants in the evening or early morning. You can also place shallow dishes of beer or use iron phosphate bait near the base of the plants to deter them.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your sweet pea

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

You should worry if the plant growth is stunted or if the flower buds are being eaten before they can open. A few bugs are normal, but a full infestation will kill your display.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the area around your sweet peas clear of debris and weeds to remove hiding spots for pests. Encourage natural predators like ladybugs to visit your garden.

Sweet Pea: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your sweet pea 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 aphids kill my sweet peas?: They can weaken the plant significantly and spread viruses, so it is best to treat them as soon as you notice them. Left unchecked, they will stunt your blooms.
Can I use neem oil on sweet peas?: Yes, neem oil is effective against both aphids and some fungal issues. Apply it in the evening to avoid harming beneficial pollinators like bees.

Why are there bugs on my sweet pea plants?

Check these first

Likely causes

Aphids

Slugs and Snails

Find out what's wrong with your sweet pea

When to worry

Stopping it coming back

Sweet Pea: pests? Check yours with a photo

Questions people ask

Guides to these causes

More problems with Sweet Pea