Will aphids kill my plant?

They rarely kill the plant, but they can ruin the flower spikes and weaken the overall growth. Treat them as soon as you see them.

Can I use dish soap to kill the aphids?

A very mild solution of water and a drop of dish soap can work, but insecticidal soap is safer for the plant foliage.

Jewels of Opar: pests, causes and fixes

Check these first

Look closely at the tips of the flower spikes for tiny insects.
Check the undersides of the leaves for sticky residue.
Examine the plant for any stunted or deformed new growth.

Likely causes

Aphid Infestation
Most likely
How to tell: You see small green or black insects clustered on new growth or sticky residue on the leaves.
What to do: Wipe the leaves down with a damp cloth or use a gentle spray of water to knock them off. For persistent bugs, apply neem oil or insecticidal soap once a week until they are gone.
Environmental Stress
Possible
How to tell: The plant is weakened by low light or poor airflow, making it more attractive to pests.
What to do: Move your plant to a spot with bright, indirect light. Ensure there is good air circulation around the plant to discourage pests from settling in.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your jewels of opar

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

Small numbers of aphids are easy to manage, but a heavy infestation can stunt flower production. If the plant looks covered in bugs, act quickly to prevent damage to the foliage.

Stopping it coming back

Check your plant regularly when you water it. Keep the leaves clean by wiping them down occasionally.

Jewels of Opar: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your jewels of opar 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

Will aphids kill my plant?: They rarely kill the plant, but they can ruin the flower spikes and weaken the overall growth. Treat them as soon as you see them.
Can I use dish soap to kill the aphids?: A very mild solution of water and a drop of dish soap can work, but insecticidal soap is safer for the plant foliage.

Guides to these causes

Aphids

What are these tiny bugs on my Jewels of Opar?