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Goldenrod · Solidago

Why are there bugs on my goldenrod?

It is less common for goldenrod to have major pest issues, but they can occasionally attract aphids or spider mites. Check the undersides of the leaves and the stems for tiny insects or webbing to see what you are dealing with.

pests on a plant
Photo: Jules Verne Times Two, CC BY-SA 4.0

Check these first

  1. Inspect the undersides of leaves for tiny bugs.
  2. Look for sticky residue on the stems.
  3. Check for fine webbing between leaves.

Likely causes

  1. Aphids

    Possible

    How to tell: You will see clusters of tiny green or black insects on the new growth or flower buds. They often leave behind a sticky residue called honeydew.

    What to do: Spray the plant with a strong stream of water from your hose to knock them off. If they persist, apply insecticidal soap once a week until they are gone.

  2. Spider Mites

    Possible

    How to tell: Look for fine, silky webbing between the leaves and stems. The foliage might also look stippled or pale.

    What to do: Increase the humidity around the plant and wash the leaves with water. Use neem oil every 7 to 10 days if the infestation is heavy.

Find out what's wrong with your goldenrod

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.

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When to worry

You should worry if the plant looks stunted or if the leaves start turning yellow and dropping. A few stray bugs are usually manageable and not a sign of a dying plant.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your goldenrod healthy with proper spacing to ensure good airflow. Check your plants every few weeks during the growing season to catch any visitors early.

Keep your goldenrod 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 these bugs kill my goldenrod?
Usually not, as goldenrod is quite tough. However, a large colony can weaken the plant and reduce its flowering.
Can I use household soap to kill them?
Avoid using regular dish soap, as it can damage the leaves. Stick to insecticidal soaps or neem oil designed for garden use.

More problems with Goldenrod

Back to the Goldenrod guide

This article was generated with AI from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.