Little Black Bugs on My Plants Outside

Types of Little Black Bugs That Eat Plants

• Black spider mites like to feed on vegetable plants, herbs, shrubs and many other garden plants. These bugs are not always easy to spot because of their small size. You may not have problems with your plants if you see a few spider mites on occasion, but too many of these insects can kill plants. Some other plant-devouring black bugs include millipedes, sowbugs, earwigs, some species of aphids, and Japanese beetles.

Causes and Prevention

• Prevent pests in the first place by caring for your plant and soil properly. Healthy plants are more reistant to pest infestation and disease. Till the ground and add five or more inches of compost to the soil. Remove weeds and prune plants when needed. Check the pH of the soil and make adjustments based on the type of plants in your garden. Some plants, such as tomatoes and blueberry bushes, prefer more acidic soil. Carrots, broccoli and other vegetables thrive in more alkaline soils. Separate plants -- keep the acid-loving plants in one area while you create a haven for your alkaline plants on the other side of the garden.

  Bugs may invade plants infected with mosaic virus, downy mildew, powdery mildew or other diseases. Treat plants with disease promptly. Identify the disease first, then take steps to restore your plants to health before the bugs take over.

Chemical Pest Control

• Chemical products can quickly kill pests, but use these products sparingly, since the plant also absorbs everything you spray on it. Research various types of pesticides before using them. According to the University of Oklahoma Extension, pesticides are rated in categories such as highly toxic (Class 1), moderately toxic (Class 2) and slightly toxic (Class 3). The class of various products is sometimes displayed on the label.

Natural Pest Control

• You don't always need to use chemicals when trying to control pests. Try natural methods instead and then resort to chemicals only if you must. Sometimes, you can restore your plants by spraying your garden with herbal pest control products that contain cloves or neem oil. Bring good insects into your garden that kill invading bugs while leaving your plants alone. Buy ladybugs or praying mantises and allow them to make their home in your garden.