Noticing swarms of microscopic green bugs on your plants? Sounds like aphids! Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed by sucking the nutrient-rich liquids out of the plants. The adults are under ¼ inch and often nearly invisible to the naked eye. They can appear in numerous colors like black, white, brown, yellow, green and pink. Some also have a waxy or wooly coating as well as long antennas. Adults are usually wingless, but most species can develop wings when populations become crowded, so when their food quality suffers, they can travel to a new food source and begin a new colony.
In large numbers they can weaken plants significantly, harming flowers and fruit. They multiply quickly, so it is important to get them under control before reproduction starts. Multiple generations can occur in just one season and they don’t need a mate to reproduce.
Nymphs and adults feed on plant juices, attacking leaves, stems, buds, flowers, fruit and the roots. Keep an eye out for misshapen, curling, stunted or yellow leaves. Also check the undersides of the leaves as they like to hide there. If the leaves or stems are covered with a sticky substance that is a sign that they have been sipping sap. This honeydew can attract other insects that like to feed on it like ants. Honeydew sometimes encourages fungal growth as well called sooty mold, causing branches and leaves to appear black. Flowers or fruit can become distorted or deformed.
Aphids can be common both outdoors and indoors. Aphids can be easily controlled the quicker you identify the problem. If you’re noticing signs of deteriorating health in your plants is always best to consult with a professional to get the situation under control.
