Are these bugs harmful to me?

No, aphids are harmless to humans and pets, though they can damage your plant.

Can I use household soap to kill aphids?

Use only mild, non detergent soap diluted in water, as harsh chemicals can burn the leaves.

How do I get rid of pests on my geranium? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Examine the undersides of the leaves closely.
Check the flower buds for sticky residue.
Look for fuzzy gray patches on the foliage.

Likely causes

Aphids
Most likely
How to tell: Small green or black insects clustered on the undersides of leaves or on flower buds.
What to do: Spray the plant with a strong stream of water to knock them off. For persistent infestations, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil once a week.
Botrytis
Possible
How to tell: Gray fuzzy mold appearing on leaves or flowers, often caused by high humidity.
What to do: Remove all affected parts of the plant immediately to stop the spread. Improve air circulation around the plant and avoid getting water on the leaves.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your 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.

When to worry

Small numbers of aphids are manageable, but a heavy infestation can drain the plant of energy. Botrytis is serious and requires immediate cleanup to save the plant.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your plant in a well ventilated area and inspect it every time you water.

Geranium: pests? Check yours with a photo

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

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Are these bugs harmful to me?: No, aphids are harmless to humans and pets, though they can damage your plant.
Can I use household soap to kill aphids?: Use only mild, non detergent soap diluted in water, as harsh chemicals can burn the leaves.

How do I get rid of pests on my geranium?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your geranium?

Likely causes

Aphids

Botrytis

Find out what's wrong with your geranium

When to worry

Stopping it coming back

Geranium: pests? Check yours with a photo

Questions people ask

Guides to these causes

More problems with Geranium