Aphids

Description

Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed on plants’ sap using their long, slender mouths to pierce stems, leaves,and other tender plant parts.  phids have pear-shaped bodies with long legs and antennae that may be green, yellow, brown, red, or black, depending on the species and the plants they feed on.

Signs & Symptoms

• Curled, yellowing leaves
• Stunted growth
• Sticky sap on and beneath the tree (honeydew)
• Groups of aphids under the leaves

Effects On Your Tree

Aphids are most often a nuisance due to the sap excretion (honeydew) they produce when sucking the sap from plant tissues. Severe infestations can defoliate and stress trees and shrubs.

Management Options

Preventative treatments in early spring can help manage aphid populations in the summer. Insecticidal soap may be applied to control an existing outbreak of aphids.