Are whiteflies harmful?

Yes, they drain the plant of nutrients and can cause leaves to yellow or drop. They also leave behind a sticky substance that can attract mold.

Do I need harsh chemicals?

No, insecticidal soap or neem oil is usually enough to handle a whitefly problem. Avoid broad spectrum pesticides that kill beneficial insects.

Mexican bush sage: pests, causes and fixes

Check these first

Look closely at the undersides of the leaves.
Shake the branches gently to see if anything flies out.
Check for sticky residue on the leaves.

Likely causes

Whitefly Infestation
Most likely
How to tell: You see small white insects flying up when you shake the plant or brush against it.
What to do: Spray the undersides of the leaves with insecticidal soap or neem oil. Repeat this process every 5 to 7 days until the bugs are gone.
Low Air Circulation
Possible
How to tell: The plant is crowded by other shrubs, making it a perfect home for pests.
What to do: Prune back surrounding plants to increase airflow around your sage. This makes the environment less inviting for whiteflies.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your mexican bush sage

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

A few bugs are manageable, but if the leaves start turning yellow or dropping, you need to treat the plant immediately.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your plant healthy with proper sun and airflow, and inspect the leaves every time you water.

Mexican bush sage: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your mexican bush sage 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 whiteflies harmful?: Yes, they drain the plant of nutrients and can cause leaves to yellow or drop. They also leave behind a sticky substance that can attract mold.
Do I need harsh chemicals?: No, insecticidal soap or neem oil is usually enough to handle a whitefly problem. Avoid broad spectrum pesticides that kill beneficial insects.

Guides to these causes

Whitefly

What are these tiny bugs on my Mexican bush sage?