Pocket Botanist
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Check these first
- Look closely at the stems for white frothy bubbles.
- Check the undersides of leaves for tiny crawling insects.
- Wipe away any foam to see if the stem underneath is healthy.
Likely causes
Spittlebugs
Most likelyHow to tell: You will see small masses of white foam that look like spit on the stems or leaf axils. Inside the foam, you might find a small green or brown nymph.
What to do: Simply wash the foam off with a gentle spray of water from your hose. You can also wipe them away with a damp cloth if the plant is small.
Aphids
PossibleHow to tell: Tiny green or black insects cluster on the new growth or flower buds. They often leave behind a sticky substance called honeydew.
What to do: Spray the affected areas with a mild insecticidal soap or a mixture of water and a drop of dish soap. Repeat every 5 to 7 days until they are gone.
Find out what's wrong with your lavender
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.
Scan with your phone's camera to get the app
Or go to pocketbotanist.app/get on your phone
When to worry
Only worry if the plant shows signs of stunted growth or yellowing leaves. Most lavender plants tolerate these pests without any long term issues.
Stopping it coming back
Keep your lavender healthy with plenty of sun and good airflow to discourage pest infestations.
Lavender: pests? Check yours with a photo
Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your lavender 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.
Scan with your phone's camera to get the app
Or go to pocketbotanist.app/get on your phone
Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free
Questions people ask
- Are spittlebugs harmful to lavender?
- Not really. They feed on plant sap, but they rarely cause enough damage to hurt a mature lavender plant.
- Should I use pesticides on my lavender?
- Avoid harsh chemicals, especially if you plan to use the lavender for cooking or crafts. Simple water sprays or organic insecticidal soaps are safer choices.
Guides to these causes
More problems with Lavender
This article was generated with AI on from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.