Can aphids kill my burnet saxifrage?

A severe infestation can weaken the plant and stunt its flowering, but it rarely kills a healthy, established plant.

Do I need to use harsh chemicals?

No, you should avoid harsh pesticides. Simple water sprays or mild insecticidal soaps are usually enough to control the population.

Why are there bugs on my burnet saxifrage? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the flower stems for clusters of small insects.
Look for sticky residue on the leaves.
Check nearby plants to see if the infestation is spreading.

Likely causes

Aphid infestation
Most likely
How to tell: You will see small, soft bodied insects clustered on the stems or flower buds. They often leave behind a sticky residue called honeydew.
What to do: Spray the affected areas with a strong stream of water to knock them off. If they persist, apply insecticidal soap once a week until the bugs are gone.
Nutrient imbalance
Possible
How to tell: Plants with excessive nitrogen growth are often more attractive to aphids. The foliage may look overly lush but weak.
What to do: Avoid using high nitrogen fertilizers during the growing season. Switch to a balanced, slow release fertilizer to encourage steady, healthy growth.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your burnet saxifrage

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 are usually manageable, but you should act if you see the plant's growth slowing down or the flower buds failing to open.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your plant healthy with proper sun and water, and encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs to visit your garden.

Burnet saxifrage: pests? Check yours with a photo

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

Can aphids kill my burnet saxifrage?: A severe infestation can weaken the plant and stunt its flowering, but it rarely kills a healthy, established plant.
Do I need to use harsh chemicals?: No, you should avoid harsh pesticides. Simple water sprays or mild insecticidal soaps are usually enough to control the population.

Guides to these causes

Aphids

Why are there bugs on my burnet saxifrage?