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Common Mallow · Malva neglecta

Why are there tiny bugs on my Common Mallow?

Aphids love to cluster on the tender new growth of Common Mallow. They suck the sap, which can cause the leaves to look distorted or sticky.

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

Check these first

  1. Look closely at the new growth tips for small clusters of bugs.
  2. Check the undersides of leaves for sticky residue.
  3. Search for fine webbing between stems.

Likely causes

  1. Aphid Infestation

    Most likely

    How to tell: You will see small, soft bodied insects clustered on stems and leaf undersides. They often leave behind a sticky substance called honeydew.

    What to do: Spray the aphids off with a sharp stream of water from your hose. For larger groups, apply a mild insecticidal soap or neem oil directly to the insects.

  2. Spider Mites

    Possible

    How to tell: You might notice fine webbing between leaves or stems. The leaves may look speckled or pale before they eventually drop.

    What to do: Increase the humidity around the plant if possible, as mites hate moisture. Wash the plant down with water or use a neem oil spray to manage the population.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your common mallow

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

A few aphids are manageable, but if they cover the entire plant, they will stunt its growth. Treat them as soon as you spot them to prevent a full takeover.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your plant healthy with proper sun and water, as stressed plants are more attractive to pests. You can also encourage ladybugs, which eat aphids.

Common Mallow: pests? Check yours with a photo

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

Are these bugs harmful to me?
No, aphids and spider mites are harmless to humans. They only care about the sap in your mallow.
Do I need to use harsh chemicals?
Not usually. A strong spray of water or simple insecticidal soap is typically enough to clear them out.

Guides to these causes

More problems with Common Mallow

Back to the Common Mallow 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.