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corn speedwell · Veronica arvensis

What are the pests on my corn speedwell?

It is less common for this plant to have pests, as it is quite hardy in its native environment. When pests do appear on corn speedwell, they are usually aphids or spider mites attracted by dry conditions. Check the undersides of the leaves for tiny insects or webbing.

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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 leaves for small moving insects.
  2. Look for fine webbing between the stems.
  3. Check for sticky residue on the foliage.

Likely causes

  1. Aphids

    Most likely

    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 affected areas with a strong stream of water 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 leaves may also look speckled or yellowed.

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

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your corn speedwell

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

If the leaves are turning yellow or dropping rapidly, the infestation is severe. A few stray insects are normal and can be managed with simple cleaning.

Stopping it coming back

Keep the plant healthy by watering consistently and maintaining good airflow. Regularly wiping down leaves helps prevent dust and pest buildup.

Corn speedwell: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your corn speedwell 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 household soap to kill the pests?
Avoid harsh dish soaps, as they can burn the leaves. Use a dedicated insecticidal soap or a very mild, non-detergent soap diluted in water.
Will these pests spread to my other plants?
Yes, aphids and spider mites can easily move to nearby plants. Isolate your corn speedwell until you are sure the pests are gone.

Guides to these causes

More problems with corn speedwell

Back to the corn speedwell 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.