Will aphids kill my willow?

Usually no, but a heavy infestation can weaken the plant and make it susceptible to other issues. It is best to treat them early.

Can I use systemic pesticides?

It is better to avoid them, as they can harm beneficial insects like bees that visit your willow. Stick to soap or oil sprays.

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

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of the leaves for small clusters of insects.
Look for sticky residue on the leaves or the ground beneath the plant.
Check for curled or distorted new growth.

Likely causes

Aphids
Most likely
How to tell: You will see clusters of tiny green or black insects on the undersides of leaves and sticky honeydew residue on the foliage. The leaves may also begin to curl or distort as the aphids feed.
What to do: Spray the entire plant with a strong stream of water from your hose to knock them off. If they persist, apply an insecticidal soap or neem oil spray every 5 to 7 days until they are gone.
Willow anthracnose
Possible
How to tell: This is less common for this plant, usually caused by poor air circulation or overly wet foliage in humid weather. Look for dark, sunken spots on leaves and twigs that cause them to die back.
What to do: Prune away all infected twigs and leaves to stop the spread. Improve airflow around the plant and avoid overhead watering to keep the foliage dry.

Find out what's wrong with your basket 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

Worry if the infestation is so heavy that the plant stops growing or shows significant leaf drop. A few aphids are normal and usually managed by natural predators.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your willow healthy with consistent water and full sun to help it resist pests. Avoid over fertilizing, as excess nitrogen creates soft growth that attracts aphids.

Keep your basket willow healthy from here

Save your plant in Pocket Botanist and you get care reminders timed for this plant, plus a care history that shows what worked. Identification and a health check are free.

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Questions people ask

Will aphids kill my willow?: Usually no, but a heavy infestation can weaken the plant and make it susceptible to other issues. It is best to treat them early.
Can I use systemic pesticides?: It is better to avoid them, as they can harm beneficial insects like bees that visit your willow. Stick to soap or oil sprays.

Why are there bugs on my basket willow?