They suck sap and can weaken the plant, but they rarely kill a healthy, established willow. They are mostly a nuisance.

Do I need to use chemicals?

No, try water sprays or insecticidal soap first. These are much safer for the environment and your local pollinators.

Why are there bugs on my Grey willow? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Look closely at the tips of new branches for tiny insects.
Check for sticky residue on the leaves.
See if ants are crawling on the branches, as they often farm aphids.

Likely causes

Aphid Infestation
Most likely
How to tell: You will see small, soft bodied insects clustered on new stems and leaf undersides. They often leave behind a sticky substance called honeydew.
What to do: Spray the affected areas with a strong stream of water to knock them off. For heavy infestations, use an insecticidal soap spray every 5 to 7 days.
Nutrient Imbalance
Possible
How to tell: Excessive nitrogen can lead to a flush of soft, succulent growth that attracts aphids. The plant may look overly lush but weak.
What to do: Avoid over fertilizing your willow. Use a balanced, slow release fertilizer only once in early spring.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your grey willow

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

If the new growth is stunted or curling, you need to act. A few aphids are normal and usually managed by ladybugs.

Stopping it coming back

Encourage beneficial insects like ladybugs and lacewings to visit your garden. Avoid using broad spectrum pesticides that kill these helpful predators.

Grey willow: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your grey willow 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

Are aphids harmful?: They suck sap and can weaken the plant, but they rarely kill a healthy, established willow. They are mostly a nuisance.
Do I need to use chemicals?: No, try water sprays or insecticidal soap first. These are much safer for the environment and your local pollinators.

Guides to these causes

Aphids

Why are there bugs on my Grey willow?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your grey willow?