Will these pests kill my bamboo?

Usually no, but they can make it look very unsightly and weak. If left untreated for a long time, the plant may lose its vigor.

Can I just cut off the infected leaves?

Yes, pruning heavily infested branches helps reduce the population. Make sure to dispose of the clippings in the trash, not your compost pile.

Golden Bamboo: pests, causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of several leaves with a magnifying glass.
Look for tiny white or red moving specks.
Check if the webbing is concentrated near the leaf veins.

Likely causes

Bamboo Mites
Most likely
How to tell: You will see small white patches or webbing on the underside of the leaves. The leaves may also start to look speckled or yellow.
What to do: Spray the foliage thoroughly with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Repeat this process every 7 days for 3 weeks to catch new hatchlings.
Spider Mites
Possible
How to tell: These pests create fine webs between leaves and stems. They thrive in hot, dry conditions.
What to do: Increase humidity around the plant by misting the leaves regularly. Use a strong stream of water to wash the mites off the foliage.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your golden bamboo

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

If the webbing covers the entire plant and leaves are turning brown, the infestation is severe. Minor webbing is manageable with consistent treatment.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your bamboo well watered, as mites prefer stressed, dry plants. Periodically spray the leaves with water to discourage them from settling in.

Golden Bamboo: pests? Check yours with a photo

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

Will these pests kill my bamboo?: Usually no, but they can make it look very unsightly and weak. If left untreated for a long time, the plant may lose its vigor.
Can I just cut off the infected leaves?: Yes, pruning heavily infested branches helps reduce the population. Make sure to dispose of the clippings in the trash, not your compost pile.

Guides to these causes

Spider Mites

Why are there white webs on my Golden Bamboo leaves?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your golden bamboo?