Controlling Aphids

Aphids (Size=less than 1/10 inch)

Found throughout the United States. These small, soft-bodied insects may be pale green, pink, black, or yellow, depending on the species. Some stages of the life cycle are winged, others wingless. Aphids feed on a wide variety of plants, including most edible and ornamental plants. Clustering on tips of new growth and leaf undersides, they feed by sucking out plant juices, causing leaves to become distorted and yellow. Aphids secrete a sugary fluid called honeydew that attracts ants and may cause the growth of a sooty black fungus on leaves. In small numbers aphids do little damage, but they reproduce rapidly. Control while the population is still small.

Controls

• Aphids are easy to control. Simply washing plants with a strong spray of water will reduce their numbers dramatically.
• Insecticidal soap or neem oil are effective. When spraying, be sure to cover leaf undersides. Products to consider include Houseplant Medic and the Organic Pharm line of products.
• Attract and release beneficial insects, such as ladybugs and lacewings.

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