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Hare's foot clover · Trifolium arvense

Why are there bugs on my Rabbit's Foot Clover?

Seeing tiny insects on your clover is common, especially when it is kept in sheltered spots. The most likely culprits are aphids that cluster on the soft stems. Check the undersides of the leaves first to confirm what you are dealing with.

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

Check these first

  1. Inspect the undersides of the leaves for small clusters of insects.
  2. Look for sticky residue on the stems or nearby surfaces.
  3. Check for fine webbing between the leaves.

Likely causes

  1. Aphids

    Most likely

    How to tell: You will see small green or black insects clustered on the stems and new growth. They often leave behind a sticky residue called honeydew.

    What to do: Spray the plant with a gentle stream of water to knock them off. If they persist, apply insecticidal soap once a week for 3 weeks until they are gone.

  2. Spider Mites

    Possible

    How to tell: Look for very fine webbing between the stems and tiny yellow stippling on the leaves. These pests thrive in dry, hot conditions.

    What to do: Increase the humidity around your plant by misting it occasionally. Wipe the leaves down with a damp cloth and use neem oil if the infestation is heavy.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your hare's foot clover

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 act as soon as you see them, as they multiply quickly. If the plant is covered in webbing or the stems are wilting, the infestation is severe.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your plant healthy with proper sunlight and avoid over fertilizing, which attracts aphids. Regularly check your plant during your weekly watering routine.

Hare's foot clover: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your hare's foot clover 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.

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Questions people ask

Can I use dish soap to kill the bugs?
Yes, but use a mild, non-detergent soap diluted in water. Avoid heavy degreasing soaps as they can damage the delicate clover leaves.
Will these bugs spread to my other plants?
Yes, aphids and mites can easily travel to nearby plants. Isolate your clover until the pests are completely gone.

Guides to these causes

More problems with Hare's foot clover

Back to the Hare's foot clover guide

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