How do I get rid of pests on my bitter melon?

Check these first

1. Look closely at the undersides of new leaves.
2. Check for sticky honeydew residue on the foliage.
3. Inspect the plant for white fungal patches.

Likely causes

1. Aphid Infestation

   Most likely

   How to tell: You see tiny green or black insects clustered on new shoots and sticky residue on the leaves.

   What to do: Spray the plant with a strong stream of water to knock them off. If they persist, apply neem oil or insecticidal soap every 5 to 7 days until they are gone.

2. Powdery Mildew

   Possible

   How to tell: White, powdery fungal spots appear on the leaves during humid weather.

   What to do: Improve air circulation by pruning crowded vines. Apply a mixture of 1 tablespoon of baking soda in 1 gallon of water to the affected leaves.

When to worry

Small numbers of aphids are manageable, but you should act immediately if you see leaf curling or stunted growth. Powdery mildew is serious if it covers more than half of the leaf surface.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your plants healthy with proper spacing and avoid overhead watering to reduce humidity around the leaves.

Questions people ask

Are aphids harmful to the fruit?

They mostly damage the leaves and stems, but a heavy infestation can weaken the whole plant and reduce fruit yield.

Can I use dish soap to kill bugs?

Yes, a mild solution of water and a few drops of non-detergent soap works well for aphids, but rinse the leaves afterward.

More problems with Bitter Melon

• Why are my bitter melon leaves turning yellow?
• Why is my bitter melon plant drooping?