Aphid Control

Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects with sucking mouthparts that attack a wide variety of plants. They are most often found clustered on the undersides of leaves and on tender new growth.

What Are Aphids?

Aphids are small, soft insects that come in a range of colors, including green, black, yellow, and red. They feed by sucking sap from plant tissues, weakening plants and damaging new growth.

Aphids reproduce very quickly during the growing season. Females do not need to mate and give birth to live young, allowing populations to explode in a short time.

Signs of Aphid Damage

• Distorted or curled new growth
• Discolored or damaged leaves and stems
• Sticky residue on leaves or nearby surfaces
• Ant activity on affected plants

The sticky substance aphids excrete, called honeydew, often attracts ants. Ants themselves are not damaging the plant, but their presence often indicates an aphid infestation.

Sooty Mold

Honeydew left on leaves can lead to sooty mold, a black fungus that grows on the sticky surface. While sooty mold does not infect the plant directly, it blocks sunlight and gives plants a dirty appearance.

Aphid Control Options

Several effective control methods are available, depending on infestation size and plant type.

• Beneficial insects: Lady beetles and praying mantis help keep aphid populations under control. Lady beetles can consume up to 50 aphids per day.
• Horticultural oils: Products such as Ferti-lome Horticultural Oil provide safe, effective control when applied thoroughly.
• Insecticides: Products containing permethrin, such as Hi-Yield Indoor/Outdoor or Bonide Eight, control aphids and the ants that protect them.

Because control options vary by plant and infestation level, our staff can help recommend the best product for your specific situation.

Please read and follow all label instructions when applying any pest control products.