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Red-veined dock · Rumex sanguineus

Why are there bugs on my Red-veined dock?

Aphids are the most common pest for Red-veined dock, often clustering on the tender new growth. Check the tips of your plant to see if these tiny insects are feeding on the sap.

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pests on a plant
Photo: Jules Verne Times Two, CC BY-SA 4.0

Check these first

  1. Look closely at the new, unfolding leaves.
  2. Check for sticky residue on the leaves below the growth tips.
  3. Look for tiny moving specks on the stems.

Likely causes

  1. Aphid infestation

    Most likely

    How to tell: Tiny green or black insects cluster on new stems and leaf undersides. You might also notice a sticky residue called honeydew on the leaves.

    What to do: Spray the plant with a strong stream of water to knock the aphids off. If they persist, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil every 5 to 7 days until they are gone.

  2. Spider mites

    Possible

    How to tell: Fine webbing appears between the stems or leaves. The foliage may look stippled or pale.

    What to do: Increase the humidity around your plant by misting it or using a tray of pebbles and water. Wipe the leaves down with a damp cloth to remove the mites.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your red-veined dock

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.

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When to worry

Worry if the plant growth is stunted or leaves are curling. A few stray bugs are manageable, but a full colony needs immediate action.

Stopping it coming back

Check your plant weekly for new arrivals. Keeping the plant healthy and well-watered makes it less attractive to pests.

Red-veined dock: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your red-veined dock 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.

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Questions people ask

Do I need to use harsh chemicals?
No, insecticidal soap or even a simple water spray is usually enough. Avoid strong pesticides that might harm beneficial insects.
Why do they keep coming back?
Aphids are very mobile. Check nearby plants to see if they are harboring the pests and treat them at the same time.

Guides to these causes

More problems with Red-veined dock

Back to the Red-veined dock guide

This article was generated with AI on from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.