Will aphids kill my Weigela?

It is rare for aphids to kill a mature shrub. They are mostly a cosmetic nuisance that can weaken the plant if left unchecked for a long time.

Should I use systemic pesticides?

Avoid systemic pesticides as they can harm beneficial pollinators like bees that visit your Weigela flowers. Stick to soap or oil sprays.

Weigela: pests, causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of new leaves for tiny insects.
Check for sticky residue on the foliage.
Look for ants, which often farm aphids.

Likely causes

Aphid Infestation
Most likely
How to tell: You see small green or black insects clustered on the tips of new shoots. The leaves might look sticky from the honeydew they leave behind.
What to do: Spray the aphids off with a strong blast of water from your garden hose. If they persist, apply insecticidal soap or neem oil directly to the affected areas every 5 to 7 days.

Pests on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your weigela

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 normal and usually managed by ladybugs. Worry if the infestation covers the entire plant and causes significant leaf curling or stunted growth.

Stopping it coming back

Keep your plant healthy with proper watering and avoid heavy nitrogen fertilizers that create soft, succulent growth that aphids love.

Weigela: pests? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your weigela 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 Weigela?: It is rare for aphids to kill a mature shrub. They are mostly a cosmetic nuisance that can weaken the plant if left unchecked for a long time.
Should I use systemic pesticides?: Avoid systemic pesticides as they can harm beneficial pollinators like bees that visit your Weigela flowers. Stick to soap or oil sprays.

Guides to these causes

Aphids

Why are there bugs on my Old Fashioned Weigela?