Are aphids harmful to my Wandflower?

Yes, they suck the sap from the plant, which weakens it and can cause distorted growth. They can also spread plant viruses.

Do I need to use chemical pesticides?

Usually not. Water sprays and insecticidal soaps are very effective and safer for the environment.

What are these tiny bugs on my Wandflower? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of the leaves.
Look closely at the flower buds for clusters of insects.
Check for sticky residue on the foliage.

Likely causes

Aphid Infestation
Most likely
How to tell: You see clusters of tiny green or black insects on the stems and flower buds. The leaves may look sticky or distorted.
What to do: Spray the plant with a strong stream of water to knock the bugs off. For heavy infestations, apply insecticidal soap every 5 to 7 days until they are gone.
Ant Activity
Possible
How to tell: You notice ants crawling up and down the stems of your plant. Ants often farm aphids for their honeydew.
What to do: Treat the aphid population first, as the ants will leave once their food source is gone. You can also use a sticky barrier around the base of the plant.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your wandflower

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 stunted growth, you must act quickly. Small numbers are common in the spring.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your plant healthy with proper sun and water, and check the foliage weekly during the growing season.

Wandflower: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your wandflower 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

Are aphids harmful to my Wandflower?: Yes, they suck the sap from the plant, which weakens it and can cause distorted growth. They can also spread plant viruses.
Do I need to use chemical pesticides?: Usually not. Water sprays and insecticidal soaps are very effective and safer for the environment.

Guides to these causes

Aphids

What are these tiny bugs on my Wandflower?