Can I use dish soap to kill the bugs?

You can, but make sure it is a mild, non-detergent soap. Mix one teaspoon of soap per quart of water and test it on one leaf first.

Will these bugs spread to my other plants?

Yes, aphids and spider mites travel easily. Isolate your creeping buttercup until you are sure the infestation is gone.

Creeping buttercup: pests, causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of leaves for tiny moving specks.
Look for sticky residue on the stems.
Check for fine webbing between the leaf joints.

Likely causes

Aphids
Possible
How to tell: You will see clusters of tiny green or black insects on the new growth or flower buds. They often leave behind a sticky residue called honeydew.
What to do: Spray the plant down with a strong stream of water to knock them off. If they persist, apply insecticidal soap once a week for 3 weeks.
Spider Mites
Possible
How to tell: Fine, dusty webbing appears between the stems and leaves. The foliage may also look speckled or yellowed.
What to do: Increase the humidity around the plant by misting it daily. Wipe the leaves with a damp cloth and use neem oil if the infestation is heavy.

Find out what's wrong with your creeping buttercup

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

It is time to worry if the plant starts losing leaves or the growth looks stunted. A few stray bugs are usually manageable with a quick rinse.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the soil consistently damp and maintain good air circulation around your plant to discourage pests.

Keep your creeping buttercup healthy from here

Save your plant in Pocket Botanist and you get care reminders timed for this plant, plus a care history that shows what worked. Identification and a health check are free.

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

Questions people ask

Can I use dish soap to kill the bugs?: You can, but make sure it is a mild, non-detergent soap. Mix one teaspoon of soap per quart of water and test it on one leaf first.
Will these bugs spread to my other plants?: Yes, aphids and spider mites travel easily. Isolate your creeping buttercup until you are sure the infestation is gone.

Why are there bugs on my creeping buttercup?