Aphids

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Description:

Many species. Adults and nymphs are tiny, green to black, and soft-bodied. Adults may be winged or wingless. They cluster on the underside of leaves or on stems or roots.

Common host plant(s):

Pepper, cabbage, spinach, okra, raspberry, blackberry, cantaloupe, muskmelon, celery, lettuce, turnip, cucumber, peas, beans, tomato, and potato.

Damage:

Curled and distorted leaves, stunted plants. Severely damages turnip, melons, cucumber, peas, beans, tomato, potato, celery and pepper.

Cultural Control:

Localized aphid infestations can be hand-picked or pruned out. Before planting vegetables, check surrounding weeds and other plants for aphids and destroy where found. Remove any aphids discovered on transplants before planting. Always remove all crop residues immediatly after harvest.

Organic/Biological Control:

Botanical insecticides. Applications of insecticidal soap, horticultural oil, or Neem oil may also be effective. Aphids are a favorite food of lady beetles. Damsel bugs and the larvae of lacewings and flower flies are also effective predators of aphids. Many tiny wasps act as parasites of aphids as well.

Chemical Control:

Treat when insects appear in damaging numbers.

For Beans (snaps & limas): Do not exceed 7 applications of a registered insecticide.

For Cabbage (not for brussels sprouts), Carrots, Greens or Leaf Crops (turnips, kale, spinach, or collards), Lettuce, Okra, Pea, Pepper (bell or hot), Potato, Strawberry, and Tomatoes: follow the label on a registered insecticide.

For Cucurbits (cantaloupes, cucumber, squash, pumpkins, and watermelons): Treat when seedlings emerge. Treat when insects appear in damaging numbers. Repeat as needed. Use a registered insecticide.

Notice: Because pesticide labels can change rapidly, you should read the label directions carefully before buying and using any pesticides. Regardless of the information provided here, you should always follow the latest product label when using any pesticide. If you have any doubt, please contact your local Extension agent or pesticide dealer for the latest information on pesticide label changes.

Disclaimer:  Commercial products named on this site are for informational purposes only. Virginia Cooperative Extension does not endorse these products and does not intend discrimination against other products which also may be suitable.

Prepared by Alexandra Spring and Eric Day (Modified from a publication by the USDA)