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Water forget-me-not · Myosotis scorpioides

Why are there bugs on my water forget-me-not?

Aphids love the tender new growth of water forget-me-nots. These tiny insects cluster on stems and suck the sap, which can weaken your plant.

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

Check these first

  1. Inspect the undersides of leaves and new growth tips.
  2. Look for sticky residue on the leaves.
  3. Check nearby plants for signs of the same insects.

Likely causes

  1. Aphid infestation

    Most likely

    How to tell: You see small green or black insects clustered on the tips of new stems. The leaves may also look sticky or distorted.

    What to do: Wash the aphids off with a gentle spray of water from your hose. If they persist, use a mild insecticidal soap once a week until they are gone.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your water forget-me-not

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 a heavy infestation can stunt growth. If the plant is covered in bugs, take action immediately.

Stopping it coming back

Check your plant weekly for early signs of pests. Keeping the plant healthy and well watered makes it less attractive to insects.

Water forget-me-not: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your water forget-me-not 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 rarely kill a healthy plant, but they can cause stunted growth and leaf curling. It is best to remove them as soon as you see them.
Can I use neem oil?
Yes, neem oil is effective against aphids. Apply it in the evening to avoid burning the leaves in the sun.

Guides to these causes

More problems with Water forget-me-not

Back to the Water forget-me-not 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.