Why are there bugs on my Amur honeysuckle?

Check these first

1. Inspect the undersides of new leaves for clusters of tiny insects.
2. Look for sticky honeydew residue on the leaves below the infestation.
3. Check the stems for small, immobile bumps that look like scales.

Likely causes

1. Aphid infestation

   Most likely

   How to tell: You will see clusters of tiny insects on the tips of new branches and sticky residue on the leaves below. The leaves may also start to curl or yellow.

   What to do: Spray the affected branches with a strong stream of water from your hose to knock them off. If they persist, apply insecticidal soap directly to the bugs every 5 to 7 days until they are gone.

2. Scale insects

   Possible

   How to tell: These look like small, hard brown bumps on the stems rather than moving insects. They stay in one spot and suck sap from the woody parts of the plant.

   What to do: Scrape off the bumps with a soft brush or your fingernail if the infestation is small. For larger issues, apply horticultural oil during the dormant season to smother them.

When to worry

A few aphids are normal and usually handled by ladybugs, but you should act if the plant looks stunted or the leaves are curling severely.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your shrub healthy with proper watering and avoid excessive nitrogen fertilizer, which encourages the soft growth that aphids love.

Questions people ask

Will aphids kill my honeysuckle?

It is very unlikely. While they can make the plant look messy, established shrubs are strong enough to survive an infestation.

Can I use neem oil on my plant?

Yes, neem oil is effective against both aphids and scale. Apply it in the early morning or evening to avoid burning the leaves in the sun.

More problems with Amur honeysuckle

• Why does my Amur honeysuckle have spots on its leaves?
• Why is my Amur honeysuckle growing so leggy?