Will these bugs kill my plant?

A light infestation is rarely fatal, but a heavy one can severely weaken the plant. Regular monitoring is the best defense.

Should I use chemical pesticides?

Avoid harsh chemicals if possible, as they can harm beneficial insects. Insecticidal soap or a simple water spray is usually enough.

Greater bird's-foot-trefoil: pests, causes and fixes

Check these first

Look closely at the tips of the stems for clusters of tiny bugs.
Check for sticky residue on the leaves below the clusters.
Inspect nearby plants to see if the pests are spreading.

Likely causes

Aphid infestation
Most likely
How to tell: You will see tiny green or black insects huddled on the stems and new leaves. They often leave behind a sticky residue called honeydew.
What to do: Spray the aphids off with a strong stream of water from your hose. If they persist, apply insecticidal soap directly to the affected areas every 5 days.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your greater bird's-foot-trefoil

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

A few aphids are manageable, but if they cover the entire plant and cause stunted growth, you must act quickly. It is serious if the plant stops producing flowers.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the plant healthy with proper watering, as stressed plants are more attractive to pests.

Greater bird's-foot-trefoil: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your greater bird's-foot-trefoil 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 plant?: A light infestation is rarely fatal, but a heavy one can severely weaken the plant. Regular monitoring is the best defense.
Should I use chemical pesticides?: Avoid harsh chemicals if possible, as they can harm beneficial insects. Insecticidal soap or a simple water spray is usually enough.

Guides to these causes

Aphids

Why are there bugs on my Greater bird's-foot-trefoil?