Will aphids kill my plant?

They can if left untreated for too long. They suck the sap out of the plant, which weakens it significantly.

Can I use dish soap to kill them?

Yes, but use a very mild, non-degreasing soap mixed with water. Avoid harsh detergents that might burn the leaves.

Virginia pepperweed: pests, causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of leaves for clusters of small insects.
Look for sticky residue on the stems.
Check if the plant is in a location with at least 6 hours of direct sun.

Likely causes

Aphids
Most likely
How to tell: You will see small green or black insects massed on the stems and undersides of leaves. They often leave behind a sticky residue called honeydew.
What to do: Spray the plant with a strong stream of water to knock them off. If they persist, use a mild insecticidal soap or neem oil spray once a week until they are gone.
Environmental Stress
Possible
How to tell: Plants that are not getting enough sun or are struggling with moisture levels are more attractive to pests. Weak plants have less natural defense.
What to do: Move your plant to a spot with full sun. Ensure you are watering every 3 to 7 days to keep the soil consistently moist.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your virginia pepperweed

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 time to worry if the aphids are causing the leaves to curl or the plant to stop growing. A few bugs are manageable, but a heavy infestation can quickly drain the plant.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your plant healthy with proper light and water to make it less appealing to pests. Check your plant weekly for early signs of activity.

Virginia pepperweed: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your virginia pepperweed 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 plant?: They can if left untreated for too long. They suck the sap out of the plant, which weakens it significantly.
Can I use dish soap to kill them?: Yes, but use a very mild, non-degreasing soap mixed with water. Avoid harsh detergents that might burn the leaves.

Guides to these causes

Aphids

Why are there bugs on my Virginia pepperweed?