Can I use dish soap to kill the bugs?

A very mild solution of water and a drop of dish soap can work, but insecticidal soap is safer for the plant.

Will these pests spread to my other plants?

Yes, both spider mites and aphids move easily between plants. Isolate your banana until it is completely pest free.

Dwarf banana: pests, causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of the leaves with a flashlight.
Look for fine webbing or sticky residue on the foliage.
Check the new growth tips for clusters of small bugs.

Likely causes

Spider Mites
Most likely
How to tell: You see tiny white stippling on the leaves and fine webbing between stems. These pests thrive in dry, warm conditions.
What to do: Wipe the leaves down with a damp cloth to remove the mites. Spray the plant with neem oil or insecticidal soap every 7 days until they are gone.
Banana Aphids
Possible
How to tell: Small clusters of tiny insects appear on the new growth or leaf undersides. They often leave a sticky residue called honeydew.
What to do: Wash the aphids off with a steady stream of water in the shower. Follow up with an application of insecticidal soap to kill any remaining pests.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your dwarf banana

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

Small numbers are manageable, but a heavy infestation can weaken the plant quickly. Treat immediately when you see the first signs.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the leaves clean by wiping them regularly and ensure the plant has good air circulation.

Dwarf banana: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your dwarf banana 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

Can I use dish soap to kill the bugs?: A very mild solution of water and a drop of dish soap can work, but insecticidal soap is safer for the plant.
Will these pests spread to my other plants?: Yes, both spider mites and aphids move easily between plants. Isolate your banana until it is completely pest free.

How do I get rid of pests on my Dwarf banana?

Check these first

Likely causes

Spider Mites

Banana Aphids

Find out what's wrong with your dwarf banana

When to worry

Stopping it coming back

Dwarf banana: pests? Check yours with a photo

Questions people ask

Guides to these causes

More problems with Dwarf banana