Can I use dish soap to kill aphids?

You can use a very mild solution of water and a few drops of gentle dish soap. Avoid harsh detergents that might burn the leaves.

Do I need to isolate my plant?

Yes, move the infested plant away from others to prevent the aphids from spreading. Keep it isolated until you are sure the pests are gone.

Why does my Flamingo Willow have pests? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Look closely at the underside of new leaves.
Check for a sticky substance on the leaves or stems.
See if ants are crawling on the plant, as they often farm aphids.

Likely causes

Aphid Infestation
Most likely
How to tell: Small green or black insects clustered on new leaves and a sticky residue on the foliage.
What to do: Wash the aphids off with a strong stream of water. If they persist, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil to the affected areas every 5 to 7 days.
Poor Air Circulation
Possible
How to tell: Pests seem to thrive in stagnant, crowded conditions.
What to do: Move your plant to a spot with better airflow. Prune back crowded branches to open up the center of the plant.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your flamingo 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, the infestation is heavy. A few stray aphids can be wiped away easily.

Stopping it coming back

Regularly inspect your plant and keep it healthy with proper light and water to help it resist pests.

Flamingo Willow: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your flamingo 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

Can I use dish soap to kill aphids?: You can use a very mild solution of water and a few drops of gentle dish soap. Avoid harsh detergents that might burn the leaves.
Do I need to isolate my plant?: Yes, move the infested plant away from others to prevent the aphids from spreading. Keep it isolated until you are sure the pests are gone.

Guides to these causes

Aphids

Why does my Flamingo Willow have pests?