Will whiteflies kill my privet?

They rarely kill a healthy, established plant, but they can cause significant stress and leaf drop. Treat them early to keep your shrub looking its best.

Can I just wash them off with water?

A strong blast of water can dislodge many adults, but it won't kill the eggs. You should follow up with an insecticidal soap to ensure they do not return.

Chinese privet: pests, causes and fixes

Check these first

Shake the branches gently to see if white insects fly out.
Inspect the undersides of leaves for small white specks.
Check for a sticky substance on the foliage.

Likely causes

Whitefly infestation
Most likely
How to tell: You will see tiny white insects flying up when you shake the branches. Look for sticky honeydew or black sooty mold on the leaves below.
What to do: Spray the foliage thoroughly with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Repeat this treatment every 5 to 7 days for three weeks to catch new eggs hatching.
Poor air circulation
Possible
How to tell: The center of the shrub is very dense and humid. This environment attracts pests and prevents sprays from reaching them.
What to do: Prune back crowded branches to open up the center of the plant. This allows better airflow and makes it easier to apply treatments.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your chinese privet

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

Small numbers are manageable, but heavy infestations that cause yellowing or leaf drop require immediate action. If the plant looks stunted, it needs help quickly.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your privet pruned to ensure good airflow and inspect the leaves regularly during warm, humid months.

Chinese privet: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your chinese privet 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 whiteflies kill my privet?: They rarely kill a healthy, established plant, but they can cause significant stress and leaf drop. Treat them early to keep your shrub looking its best.
Can I just wash them off with water?: A strong blast of water can dislodge many adults, but it won't kill the eggs. You should follow up with an insecticidal soap to ensure they do not return.

Guides to these causes

Whitefly

Why are there whiteflies on my Chinese privet?