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Common toadflax · Linaria vulgaris

Why are there bugs on my common toadflax?

It is less common for common toadflax to have pests, but aphids can occasionally show up when the plant is stressed. Check the undersides of the leaves and the flower spikes for tiny insects.

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pests on a plant
Photo: Jules Verne Times Two, CC BY-SA 4.0

Check these first

  1. Inspect the undersides of leaves for tiny moving specks.
  2. Look for sticky residue on the stems.
  3. Check for fine webbing near the flower buds.

Likely causes

  1. Aphids

    Possible

    How to tell: You will see clusters of tiny green or black insects on the new growth or flower buds. They often leave behind a sticky substance called honeydew.

    What to do: Spray the plant with a strong stream of water to knock them off. If they persist, apply insecticidal soap once a week for 3 weeks.

  2. Spider mites

    Possible

    How to tell: Look for fine webbing between the stems and leaves. The foliage may also look speckled or yellowed.

    What to do: Increase the humidity around the plant and wash the foliage with water. Use neem oil spray every 7 days if the infestation continues.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your common toadflax

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.

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When to worry

You should worry if the plant growth stops or the leaves begin to distort significantly. A few bugs are usually manageable with simple washing.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the plant healthy with full sun and proper spacing to ensure good air circulation. Avoid over fertilizing which can attract aphids.

Common toadflax: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your common toadflax 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.

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Questions people ask

Can I use dish soap to kill the bugs?
Only use mild, non-degreasing soap diluted heavily with water. Commercial insecticidal soap is much safer for your plant.
Will these bugs kill my toadflax?
Usually no, but they can weaken the plant and make it susceptible to other issues. Treat them early to keep your plant thriving.

Guides to these causes

More problems with Common toadflax

Back to the Common toadflax guide

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.