Will aphids kill my Mock orange?

Usually no, but they can weaken the plant and make it look messy. Severe infestations can stunt growth and reduce flower production.

Can I just wash them off?

Yes, a firm spray of water is often enough to control a light infestation. Do this in the morning so the leaves have time to dry.

Why are there bugs on my Mock orange? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of new leaves for clusters of tiny insects.
Look for sticky honeydew on the foliage or nearby surfaces.
Check for ants traveling along the branches.

Likely causes

Aphid infestation
Most likely
How to tell: You will see clusters of tiny green or black insects on new shoots and sticky residue on the leaves below.
What to do: Spray the plant with a strong stream of water to knock them off. If they persist, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil every 5 to 7 days until they are gone.
Ant farming
Possible
How to tell: Ants crawling up and down the stems often indicate they are protecting aphids for their honeydew.
What to do: Focus on clearing the aphids first, as the ants will leave once their food source is gone. You can also use a sticky barrier around the base of the trunk to stop ants from climbing.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your mock orange

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 normal, but you should worry if the new growth starts curling or if the plant looks stunted. If the infestation covers the entire shrub, take action immediately to prevent damage.

Stopping it coming back

Encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs to visit your garden, as they are natural predators of aphids. Avoid over-fertilizing, as excess nitrogen creates soft growth that aphids love.

Mock orange: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your mock orange 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 Mock orange?: Usually no, but they can weaken the plant and make it look messy. Severe infestations can stunt growth and reduce flower production.
Can I just wash them off?: Yes, a firm spray of water is often enough to control a light infestation. Do this in the morning so the leaves have time to dry.

Guides to these causes

Aphids

Why are there bugs on my Mock orange?