Will aphids kill my dewberry?

Usually no, but they can weaken the plant and spread viruses. It is best to manage them early.

Can I use dish soap to kill them?

Yes, a mild solution of water and a few drops of dish soap can work. Just make sure it does not contain degreasers or bleach.

Why are there bugs on my Southern dewberry? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of the leaves for clusters of small insects.
Look for sticky honeydew or fine webbing on the stems.
Check if the new growth is curling or stunted.

Likely causes

Aphid infestation
Most likely
How to tell: You will see small, soft bodied insects clustered on the stems and undersides of leaves. They often leave behind a sticky residue called honeydew.
What to do: Spray the plant with a strong stream of water to knock them off. If they persist, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil directly to the affected areas every 5 to 7 days.
Mite activity
Possible
How to tell: Look for fine webbing between leaves or stems. The foliage may appear stippled or pale.
What to do: Increase humidity around the plant if possible. Use a miticide or neem oil spray to treat the infestation thoroughly.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your southern dewberry

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 of aphids are usually manageable, but you should worry if the plant shows signs of stunted growth or heavy leaf curling. A few bugs are normal in an outdoor garden.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your dewberry healthy with proper watering and sunlight to help it resist infestations. Regularly inspect new growth during the spring months.

Southern dewberry: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your southern dewberry 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 dewberry?: Usually no, but they can weaken the plant and spread viruses. It is best to manage them early.
Can I use dish soap to kill them?: Yes, a mild solution of water and a few drops of dish soap can work. Just make sure it does not contain degreasers or bleach.

Guides to these causes

Aphids

Why are there bugs on my Southern dewberry?