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Regal Geranium · Pelargonium x domesticum

Why are there bugs on my Regal Geranium?

Regal Geraniums are magnets for common houseplant pests that love their soft, fuzzy leaves. Check the undersides of your leaves and the stems for any signs of movement or sticky residue.

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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 all leaves with a flashlight.
  2. Look for sticky residue on the leaves or the surface below the pot.
  3. Check the flower buds for tiny clusters of insects.

Likely causes

  1. Aphids

    Most likely

    How to tell: You will see tiny green or black insects clustered on new growth or flower buds. They often leave behind a sticky substance called honeydew.

    What to do: Spray the plant with a gentle stream of water to knock them off. Follow up by wiping the leaves with a mild solution of water and a few drops of dish soap every 3 days for 2 weeks.

  2. Whiteflies

    Most likely

    How to tell: Small white insects will fly up in a cloud if you brush against the plant. They hide on the undersides of leaves and suck the sap.

    What to do: Use yellow sticky traps placed near the plant to catch adults. Treat the foliage with neem oil once a week until you no longer see any activity.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your regal geranium

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

You should worry if the leaves start yellowing or curling, as this means the infestation is draining the plant. A few stray bugs are manageable, but a full colony requires immediate action.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your plant in a spot with good air circulation and avoid overcrowding it with other plants. Check new additions to your home for pests before placing them near your geranium.

Regal Geranium: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your regal geranium 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

Can I use household soap to kill the bugs?
Yes, but use a mild, fragrance-free dish soap. Mix one teaspoon per quart of water and spray it on the leaves, making sure to hit the undersides.
Will these bugs spread to my other plants?
Yes, aphids and whiteflies move quickly between plants. Isolate your geranium immediately until the infestation is completely gone.

Guides to these causes

More problems with Regal Geranium

Back to the Regal Geranium 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.