Will aphids kill my snow peas?

They can weaken the plant and spread viruses, so it is best to manage them early.

Can I eat the peas if I have aphids?

Yes, just wash the pods thoroughly in cool water before preparing them.

What are these bugs on my snow peas? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Look closely at the underside of the leaves.
Check the tender tips of the stems for clusters of bugs.
See if there are ants nearby, as they often farm aphids.

Likely causes

Aphid infestation
Most likely
How to tell: Small green or black insects clustered on stems and new leaves. You might also see sticky residue called honeydew.
What to do: Spray the aphids off with a strong stream of water from your garden hose. If they persist, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil in the early morning or evening.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your snow pea

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 manageable, but you should act if you see them covering the stems or if the plant growth starts to stunt.

Stopping it coming back

Encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs in your garden and avoid over fertilizing with nitrogen, which attracts aphids.

Snow pea: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your snow pea 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 aphids kill my snow peas?: They can weaken the plant and spread viruses, so it is best to manage them early.
Can I eat the peas if I have aphids?: Yes, just wash the pods thoroughly in cool water before preparing them.

Guides to these causes

Aphids

What are these bugs on my snow peas?