Aphids: Causes, Diagnosis & Fixes
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that cluster on new growth and leaf undersides, sucking sap and excreting sticky honeydew.
Quick diagnosis
Aphids reproduce rapidly but are among the easiest pests to treat. A combination of physical removal and soap sprays is usually sufficient.
Causes possibles
New Growth Attraction
Why: Aphids are drawn to tender, nitrogen-rich new growth, which is easier to pierce and feed on.
Signs to check: Clusters of small insects on stem tips, flower buds, and youngest leaves.
Over-Fertilization with Nitrogen
Why: Excess nitrogen produces soft, sappy growth that is highly attractive to aphids.
Signs to check: Lush, rapid foliage growth, aphids concentrated on the newest growth.
Introduction from Outdoors or New Plants
Why: Aphids can fly in through open windows or arrive on plants brought in from outside.
Signs to check: Aphids appeared suddenly, plant was recently moved indoors or near an open window.
Quoi verifier
- 1Inspect shoot tips and new leaves for clusters of small insects
- 2Check for sticky honeydew residue on leaves and surfaces below
- 3Note the color of aphids — they can be green, black, brown, or pink
- 4Look for cast-off white skins on leaves (aphid molts)
- 5Check whether ants are present — ants farm aphids for honeydew
Que faire
- Blast aphids off with a strong jet of water in the sink or shower
- Wipe off remaining aphids with a damp cloth
- Spray with insecticidal soap, coating all surfaces including undersides
- Apply neem oil solution for ongoing protection
- Reduce nitrogen fertilizer to discourage soft, attractive growth
Quand chercher de l'aide
- Leaves are severely curled and distorted from feeding damage
- Aphid population rebounds quickly after treatment
- Sooty mold is growing on honeydew deposits
Point cle
Aphids reproduce rapidly but are among the easiest pests to treat. A combination of physical removal and soap sprays is usually sufficient.
Frequently asked questions
What causes aphids in houseplants?
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that cluster on new growth and leaf undersides, sucking sap and excreting sticky honeydew. Common causes include new growth attraction, over-fertilization with nitrogen, introduction from outdoors or new plants.
How do I fix aphids?
Start by identifying the likely cause instead of applying every remedy at once. Blast aphids off with a strong jet of water in the sink or shower Wipe off remaining aphids with a damp cloth Spray with insecticidal soap, coating all surfaces including undersides
Track the problem over time
Suivre la recuperation dans l'app
Enregistrez les progres, configurez des rappels et obtenez un diagnostic par IA.
Sources and review
Content last reviewed: September 4, 2026
Contenu compile a partir de references horticoles accessibles au public a des fins educatives. Les organisations sources sont listees pour la transparence uniquement et n'impliquent pas d'approbation.