Are these bugs harmful?

Yes, they suck the sap from your plant, which weakens it and can spread viruses. They also attract ants.

Can I use household soap?

Avoid using dish soap, as it can burn the leaves. Stick to insecticidal soap specifically formulated for plants.

What are these bugs on my Scarlet sage? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Look closely at the undersides of the leaves.
Check for sticky honeydew on the foliage.
Shake the plant gently to see if anything flies off.

Likely causes

Aphid infestation
Most likely
How to tell: Small green or black insects are visible on the stems. You might also see sticky honeydew on the leaves.
What to do: Spray the plant with a strong stream of water to knock them off. If they persist, apply insecticidal soap every 5 days until they are gone.
Whitefly presence
Possible
How to tell: Tiny white flies flutter up when you brush against the plant. They leave yellow spots on the leaves.
What to do: Use yellow sticky traps near the plant to catch adults. Treat the foliage with neem oil every 7 days to disrupt their life cycle.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your scarlet 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 aphids are manageable, but if the leaves start curling or turning yellow, you need to act immediately. It is serious if the plant stops growing.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your plant healthy with proper watering and avoid over fertilizing, as aphids love soft, nitrogen rich growth.

Scarlet sage: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your scarlet 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 these bugs harmful?: Yes, they suck the sap from your plant, which weakens it and can spread viruses. They also attract ants.
Can I use household soap?: Avoid using dish soap, as it can burn the leaves. Stick to insecticidal soap specifically formulated for plants.

Guides to these causes

Aphids

What are these bugs on my Scarlet sage?