How to Get Rid of Pests on Pepper Plants

While some insects play a beneficial role in the garden ecosystem, others can quickly damage pepper plants if left unchecked. Common pests like aphids and spider mites feed on plant sap, stunt growth, and can even kill plants if infestations spread.

Early detection and fast action are key. Below, we explain how to identify common pepper plant pests and share proven methods to eliminate them before they cause serious damage.

Aphids – Small, Sap-Sucking Pests

Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects commonly found on the undersides of leaves, stems, and new growth. They vary in color and often cluster together in large groups, which can make infestations easy to miss at first. Some aphids are winged, allowing them to spread quickly to nearby plants.

Because aphids reproduce rapidly and hide under foliage, regular inspection is key to catching them early.

Signs of Aphid Damage

Aphids feed by sucking sap from pepper plants, which can lead to:

• • Stunted growth and curling leaves

  • Dark or sticky residue on leaves and stems

  • Weakened plants that are more susceptible to disease

If infestations are left untreated, aphids can significantly reduce plant health and yields.

How to Get Rid of Aphids

When aphids are detected, take action quickly using these methods:

• • Manual removal: Remove aphids by hand and discard heavily infested leaves away from the garden.

  • Water spray: Use a gentle stream of water to knock aphids off plants.

  • Soapy water solution: Apply directly to affected areas to kill aphids on contact. Check out how to make this below!

  • Encourage beneficial insects: Ladybugs and other natural predators help keep aphid populations under control.

Spider Mites – the Mitey Plant Killers

Spider mites are a serious threat to pepper plants and can be difficult to detect early due to their extremely small size. These tiny, eight-legged pests are about the size of a grain of sugar and typically live on the undersides of leaves. While there are many varieties, two-spotted spider mites are among the most destructive.

Spider mites reproduce rapidly and can cause significant plant damage in just a few weeks. By the time symptoms are visible, infestations are often already established, making early detection and treatment essential.

Signs of Spider Mite Damage

Spider mites feed by sucking sap from plant leaves, which leads to:

• • Yellow or brown speckling on leaves

  • Fine webbing along stems and leaf undersides

  • Leaf drop and overall plant decline

If left untreated, spider mites can severely weaken or kill pepper plants.

How to Get Rid of Spider Mites

To control spider mites and prevent them from spreading, try the following methods:

• • Mist plants regularly: Spider mites thrive in hot, dry conditions, so increasing humidity helps disrupt their lifecycle.

  • Improve air circulation: Proper airflow makes it harder for mites to spread between plants.

  • Use a soapy water solution: Applying directly to affected areas helps kill mites on contact.

  • Encourage natural predators: Ladybugs and other beneficial insects feed on spider mites and help keep populations under control.

Explore the options below for more detailed methods to eliminate these pests. 

Make a Soapy Water Solution

This is a great DIY and inexpensive, go-to solution to get the job quickly. 

Mix the following ingredients in a bucket:

• • 1 tablespoon dish soap (unscented)

  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil

  • 1 gallon warm water

Apply evenly to the entire plant, focusing on the undersides of leaves. Because the solution does not penetrate eggs, reapply every 4–7 days until pests are gone. For best results, spray early in the morning or in the evening to reduce evaporation and leaf burn.

This solution is great at controlling infestations of many pests such as aphids, spider mites, whiteflies, and thrips.

Attract Ladybugs

Ladybugs (also called lady beetles) are one of the most effective and natural ways to control pests on pepper plants. They feed heavily on aphids, spider mites, and other soft-bodied insects, making them a valuable ally in any garden.

Ladybugs can be purchased online and released directly into your garden. For best results, follow the supplier’s instructions carefully and release them during the evening or early morning when temperatures are cooler.

Plants That Attract Ladybugs

To encourage ladybugs to stay in your garden, grow plants that provide nectar and shelter. Ladybug-friendly plants include:

Flowers

• • Marigolds

  • Geraniums

  • Alyssum

Herbs

• • Cilantro

  • Parsley

  • Thyme

  • Dill

These plants attract ladybugs while also supporting other beneficial pollinators.

Create a Ladybug-Friendly Environment

Providing shelter and water helps ladybugs remain active in your garden:

• • Shelter: Ladybug houses or natural hiding spots give them protection and a place to rest or overwinter.

  • Water: Shallow water sources or damp paper towels provide hydration when pests are scarce.

Without access to food or water, ladybugs may leave your garden in search of better conditions, so keeping their habitat welcoming is key.

Start Getting Rid of Pests Right Away

Pest infestations can escalate quickly, but with regular monitoring and early intervention, most pepper plant pests can be controlled naturally and effectively. By acting fast and using proven methods, you can protect your plants and keep your garden healthy throughout the season.

Have you tried these solutions before? Let us know which solutions have worked for you in the comments below and if you're looking for more support, check out our Gardening Tips and FAQ page!