Will aphids kill my plant?

They can weaken it significantly if left unchecked. Early removal is the best way to keep your plant healthy.

Should I use a heavy pesticide?

Avoid harsh chemicals, as they can harm beneficial insects and the plant itself. Simple water or soap solutions are usually enough.

Winged primrose-willow: pests, causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the tips of the stems for small clusters of insects.
Check the undersides of the leaves for sticky residue.
Look for ants, which often farm aphids.

Likely causes

Aphid infestation
Most likely
How to tell: You see clusters of tiny green or black insects on the stem tips and undersides of leaves. You might also notice a sticky residue called honeydew.
What to do: Spray the aphids off with a gentle stream of water. If they persist, wipe the affected areas with a mild solution of water and a drop of dish soap.
Nutrient imbalance
Possible
How to tell: The plant is growing very rapidly with soft, succulent tissue that attracts pests.
What to do: Avoid over-fertilizing, as excess nitrogen creates soft growth that aphids love. Stick to a balanced fertilizer applied once a month during the growing season.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your winged primrose-willow

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 significant leaf curling, you must act quickly. A small number of pests is common in outdoor garden settings.

Stopping it coming back

Check your plant weekly for early signs of pests and rinse the foliage with water periodically.

Winged primrose-willow: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your winged primrose-willow 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

Will aphids kill my plant?: They can weaken it significantly if left unchecked. Early removal is the best way to keep your plant healthy.
Should I use a heavy pesticide?: Avoid harsh chemicals, as they can harm beneficial insects and the plant itself. Simple water or soap solutions are usually enough.

Guides to these causes

Aphids

Why does my Winged primrose-willow have aphids?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your winged primrose-willow?