Can I just wash the bugs off?

A strong spray of water can help dislodge some pests, but it rarely removes all of them. You should follow up with an insecticidal soap to ensure you kill the eggs and hidden adults.

Will these bugs kill my azalea?

If left untreated for a long time, a heavy infestation can severely stress the plant and cause leaf drop. Early intervention is the best way to keep your azalea thriving.

Why are there bugs on my Sims azalea? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of the leaves for tiny insects or webbing.
Look for yellow stippling on the upper leaf surfaces.
Check nearby plants to see if the pests have spread.

Likely causes

Lace bugs
Most likely
How to tell: You will see yellow stippling on the top of the leaves and tiny black spots of excrement on the undersides. These insects suck the sap and leave the foliage looking pale and sickly.
What to do: Spray the undersides of the leaves thoroughly with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Repeat this treatment every 7 to 10 days until the bugs are gone. Make sure to reach all the foliage to stop them from coming back.
Spider mites
Possible
How to tell: Look for fine, silky webbing between the stems or leaves. The leaves may also look dusty or develop tiny white spots.
What to do: Increase the humidity around your plant by misting it or using a pebble tray. Wipe the leaves down with a damp cloth to remove the mites and apply a neem oil spray if the infestation persists.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your sims azalea

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

Worry if the leaves start turning brown and dropping off, as this indicates a severe infestation. A few bugs are manageable, but a full colony can quickly weaken your plant.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your azalea healthy with consistent watering and good airflow to discourage pests from settling in. Regularly inspect the leaves during your weekly watering routine.

Sims azalea: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your sims azalea 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 I just wash the bugs off?: A strong spray of water can help dislodge some pests, but it rarely removes all of them. You should follow up with an insecticidal soap to ensure you kill the eggs and hidden adults.
Will these bugs kill my azalea?: If left untreated for a long time, a heavy infestation can severely stress the plant and cause leaf drop. Early intervention is the best way to keep your azalea thriving.

Guides to these causes

Spider Mites

Why are there bugs on my Sims azalea?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your sims azalea?