Are aphids harmful to the whole garden?

They can spread, but nasturtiums are often used as a trap crop to lure aphids away from other vegetables. Just keep an eye on them.

Yes, neem oil is effective, but apply it in the evening to avoid harming beneficial pollinators like bees.

What are these bugs on my nasturtium? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Look closely at the undersides of the leaves.
Check the tips of the stems for clusters of bugs.
Inspect the soil surface for any fallen debris.

Likely causes

Aphids
Most likely
How to tell: You will see clusters of tiny green or black insects on new growth. They cause leaves to curl and stunt the plant's development.
What to do: Spray the insects off with a strong stream of water from your hose. For heavy infestations, use a gentle insecticidal soap spray once a week.
Cabbage white caterpillars
Possible
How to tell: You see holes appearing in the leaves or entire leaves being eaten away. Look for small green caterpillars hiding on the undersides of leaves.
What to do: Pick the caterpillars off by hand and relocate them. If the infestation is large, use a biological control like Bacillus thuringiensis.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your nasturtium

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 plant is covered and leaves are curling, you need to act fast. It is normal to see a few insects in an outdoor garden.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the plant healthy with proper sun and water, and check the leaves weekly for early signs of pests.

Nasturtium: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your nasturtium 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 aphids harmful to the whole garden?: They can spread, but nasturtiums are often used as a trap crop to lure aphids away from other vegetables. Just keep an eye on them.
Can I use neem oil?: Yes, neem oil is effective, but apply it in the evening to avoid harming beneficial pollinators like bees.

Guides to these causes

Aphids

What are these bugs on my nasturtium?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your nasturtium?