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.

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

Check these first

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

Likely causes

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.
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.

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.

Not sure which one it is? Photograph your rabbit's foot clover.

This page lists the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at your actual leaf 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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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.