Will these bugs kill my privet?

Usually not, but they can weaken it significantly if left unchecked. Treating them early keeps your plant strong.

Can I just wash the bugs off?

Yes, a strong spray of water is often enough for minor aphid issues. For thrips, you will likely need an insecticidal soap to fully clear them.

Why are there bugs on my European privet? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of the leaves for tiny moving insects.
Look for sticky residue or black spots on the foliage.
Check the new growth tips for signs of curling.

Likely causes

Privet thrips
Most likely
How to tell: You will see tiny, slender insects and leaves that look curled, distorted, or speckled with brown patches. They hide in the new growth and leaf folds.
What to do: Spray the entire plant with insecticidal soap or neem oil every 7 days for 3 weeks. Make sure to coat the undersides of the leaves where they hide.
Aphids
Possible
How to tell: These small, soft bodied insects cluster on new shoots and leave behind a sticky substance called honeydew. They often cause the leaves to look shiny or develop black sooty mold.
What to do: Blast the aphids off with a strong stream of water from your garden hose. If they persist, apply a gentle insecticidal soap once a week until they are gone.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your european 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

It is time to worry if the infestation is causing significant leaf drop or if the plant looks weak. A few bugs are normal, but a heavy colony needs immediate treatment.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your privet healthy with proper watering and airflow to make it less attractive to pests. Regularly inspect the leaves during the growing season.

European privet: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your european 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 these bugs kill my privet?: Usually not, but they can weaken it significantly if left unchecked. Treating them early keeps your plant strong.
Can I just wash the bugs off?: Yes, a strong spray of water is often enough for minor aphid issues. For thrips, you will likely need an insecticidal soap to fully clear them.

Guides to these causes

Aphids

Why are there bugs on my European privet?