Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects. They come in many colors,
most commonly green, black and red, even pink and orange. They feed by sucking
on the plant juices. They are most often found on tender new growth and
on the underside of the leaves. This feeding reduces plant vigor and can
cause leaf curling and failure of the buds to open. Aphids secrete a sticky
substance called honeydew, which is very attractive to ants. A black sooty
mold may also grow on the honeydew.
Aphids reproduce very quickly and are found in colonies. They have many natural enemies, including ladybugs, lacewings, and some wasps. Ladybugs can be purchased at Bachman's Garden Centers at certain times of the year. To keep the aphid population in check, hand spraying with water will knock the aphids off the plant. Aphids lack the mobility to find their way back to the plant when they've been disturbed.
Insecticidal soap, horticultural oils, and other organic methods will control aphids and are not lethal to most aphid predators. Aphids are susceptible to almost every insecticide. Be sure to read the entire insecticide label and follow directions for proper application.
For further information, read online our care sheet on "Insecticide Basics", "Aphids", "Chemical Basics", and "Insect and Disease Problems on Indoor Plants".
Revised: 03/10/98
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