Aphids

Integrated Pest Management for Home Gardeners and Landscape

Integrated Landscape Professionals
Professionals

Aphids are
Aphids aresmall
small,soft-bodied
soft-bodied insects
insects
with long,
with long slender mouthparts
mouthpartsthat that
they use
they use totopierce
piercestems,
stems,leaves,
leaves,and
and
other tender
other tenderplant
plantparts
partsand
andsuck
suckoutout
fluids. Almost
fluids. Almosteveryeveryplant
planthas
hasone
oneoror
more aphid
more aphidspecies
speciesthat
thatoccasionally
occasionally
feed on
feed on it.
it. Many
Manyaphid
aphidspecies
speciesare
aredif-
difficult
ficult to distinguish
to distinguish fromfrom
one one an-
another;
other; however, management
however, management of most aphid of most
aphid species
species is similar.
is similar. Figure 1. Wingless adults and nymphs Figure 2. Woolly apple aphid adults
of the potato aphid. showing waxy coating.
Identification
IDENTIFICATION
Aphids have
Aphids have soft
soft pear-shaped
pear-shapedbodies
bodies
with long legs and antennae and
with long legs and antennae (Figure 1)
may
be green, yellow, brown, red, or black
and may be green, yellow, brown, red,
depending on the species and the
or black depending on the species and
plants they feed on. A few species
the plants they feed on. A few spe-
appear waxy or woolly due to the
cies appear waxy or woolly (Figure 2)
secretion of a waxy white or gray
due to the secretion
substance over theirofbody
a waxy white
surface.
or gray substance over their body
Most species have a pair of tubelike
surface.
structuresMost species
called have aproject-
cornicles pair of
tubelike structures
ing backward out ofcalled cornicles
the hind end of
projecting
their [Link] out of
The presence ofthe hind
cornicles
end of their body. The presence
distinguishes aphids from all other of
cornicles
insects. distinguishes aphids from
all other insects.
Generally adult aphids are wing-
less, but most
Generally adultspecies also
aphids areoccur
wing-in
winged Figure 3. General life cycle of aphids. Asexual reproduction occurs during most of
less, butforms, especially
most species alsowhen
occurpopu-
in the year (summer cycle). Some aphid species produce a generation of sexual indi-
lations are
winged highespecially
forms, or duringwhen
springpop-
and
viduals that produce overwintering eggs as shown in the winter cycle.
fall. The ability to produce winged
ulations are high or during spring
individuals provides the pest with
and fall. The ability to produce
a way to disperse to other plants mild climate reproduce asexually tive host, usually a perennial plant,
winged individuals provides the LIFE CYCLE
throughout most or all of the year fall or winter, providing a more hardy
when the quality of the food source for winter survival.
pest with a way to disperse to other with adult stage to survive harsh weather and the
deteriorates. Aphids havefemales giving birth
many generations to
a year When
plants when the quality of the food live offspring—often absencetheof weather
foliage onisdeciduous
warm, many plants.
Although they may be found singly,
source deteriorates. (Figure 3). Most aphidsas inmany as 12
California’s species of aphids can develop fromon
per day—without mating. Young In some cases, aphids lay these eggs
mild climate reproduce asexually newborn nymph
aphids often feed in dense groups on aphids are called nymphs. They molt, an alternative host,tousually
reproducing
a perennial
leaves or stems.
Although Unlike
they may leafhoppers,
be found singly, throughout most or all of the year adult in
plant, forseven
wintertosurvival
eight days. Because
(Figure 4).
shedding their skin about four times
plant bugs,
aphids oftenand
feedcertain
in denseother insects
groups on with adult females giving birth to live each adult aphid can produce up to
before becoming adults. There is no
that might be confused with them,
leaves or stems. Unlike leafhoppers, offspring—often
pupal stage. Some as species
many asproduce
12 per 80 offspring
When in a matter
the weather of amany
is warm, week,
spe-
most aphids
plant don’t
bugs, and moveother
certain rapidly when
insects day—without mating. Young
sexual forms that mate and produceaphids aphid populations can increase with
cies of aphids can develop from new-
disturbed.
that might be confused with them, are called nymphs. They molt,
eggs in fall or winter, providing shed-a greatnymph
born speed. to reproducing adult in
most aphids don’t move rapidly when ding
moretheir
hardyskin about
stage four times
to survive before
harsh seven to eight days. Because each adult
Life Cycle Damage
disturbed. Common aphid species becomingand
weather adults. There is no
the absence pupal
of foliage aphid can produce up to 80 offspring in
Aphids have
and their many
hosts generations
are listed a 1,
in Tables stage. Some species
on deciduous [Link]
In somesexual
cases, Low to moderate
a matter of a week,numbers of leaf-
aphid populations
year.
2, andMost
3. aphids in California’s aphidsthat
forms laymate
theseand
eggs on an alterna-
produce eggs in feeding
can aphids
increase aren’t
with greatusually
speed. damag-

PEST NOTES Publication

Publication 7404
7404

Statewide Integrated Pest Management Program JuneJuly

20132013
June 2013
July 2013
Aphids
Aphids

DAMAGE
ing in gardens or on trees. However, rus orchards,
cides aphids
will destroy and theinsects
beneficial honeydew
along
large populations can turn leaves they
withproduce
the [Link] providetrees,
On mature a valuable
such as
Low to moderate numbers of leaf-
yellow and stunt shoots; aphids can food source
in citrus for beneficial
orchards, aphids insects.
and the honey-
feeding aphids aren’t usually damaging
also produce large quantities of a dew they produce can provide a valuable
in gardens or on trees. However, large Monitoring
sticky exudate known as honey- food source for beneficial insects.
populations can turn leaves yellow and
dew, which often turns black with Check your plants regularly for
stunt shoots; aphids can also produce
the growth of a sooty mold fungus.
large quantities of a sticky exudate Monitoring
aphids—at least twice a week when
Some aphid species inject a toxin into plants are growing rapidly—in order
known as honeydew, which often turns Check your plants regularly for
plants, which causes leaves to curl to catch infestations early, so you
black with the growth of a sooty mold aphids—at least twice a week when Figure 4. Some aphids overwinter as eggs
and further distorts growth. A few can knock or hose them off or prune
fungus (Figure 5). Some aphid species plants are growing rapidly—in order such as the mealy plum aphid on plums.
species cause gall formations. them out. Many species of aphids
inject a toxin into plants, which causes to catch infestations early, so you can
cause the greatest damage in late
leaves tomay
Aphids curltransmit
and further distorts
viruses from knock or hose them off or prune them
spring when temperatures are warm
growth
plant to (Figure
plant on6).certain
A few species
vegetable cause out. Many species of aphids cause the
but not hot (65°-80°F). For aphids
gall formations.
and ornamental plants. Squash, greatest damage
that cause leavesin tolate spring
curl, oncewhen
aphid
cucumber, pumpkin, melon, bean,
numbers are high and theynot
temperatures are warm but havehot
Aphids lettuce,
potato, may transmit virusesand
beet, chard, from bok (65°-80°F). For aphids thatit’s
cause leaves
begun to distort leaves, often dif-
plantare
choy to plant
cropsonthat certain
oftenvegetable
have aphid- and to curl, once aphid numbers are high
ficult to control these pests, because
ornamental plants.
transmitted virusesSquash,associatedcucumber,
with andcurled
they have begun to distort leaves,
the leaves shelter aphids from
pumpkin,
them. The melon,
virusesbean,mottle, potato,
yellow,lettuce,
or it’s often difficult to control these pests,
insecticides and natural enemies.
beet,leaves
curl chard,and andstunt
bok choy plantare crops
growth. because the curled leaves shelter aphids
that often losses
Although have aphid-transmitted
can be great, they Aphids tend to beand
from insecticides most prevalent
natural enemies. Figure 5. Honeydew produced by the
viruses
are associated
difficult to preventwith by them. The vi-
controlling along the upwind edge of the garden hackberry woolly aphid.
ruses mottle,
aphids, because yellow, or curl
infection leaveseven
occurs and and
Aphidsclose to other
tend infested
to be most plantsalong
prevalent of
stunt plant growth. Although
when aphid numbers are very low; losses the same species, so make
the upwind edge of the garden and a special
itcan be great,
takes only atheyfeware difficult
minutes fortothepre- effort
close to checkinfested
to other these areas.
plantsMany
of the
vent by
aphid tocontrolling
transmit the aphids,
virus,because
while it aphid species prefer the underside
same species, so make a special effort
infection
takes a much occurs eventime
longer whentoaphidkill thenum- of leaves, so turn leaves over when
to check these areas. Many aphid spe-
bers are very low; it takes only a few checking
aphid with an insecticide. cies preferfor theaphids.
undersideOn trees, clipso
of leaves, off
minutes for the aphid to transmit the leaves from several areas of the tree.
Avirus,
few aphid turn leaves over when checking for
while itspecies
takes aattackmuch parts
longeroftime Also check for evidence of natural en-
plants aphids. On trees, clip off leaves from
to kill other
the aphidthanwithleaves and shoots.
an insecticide. emies such as lady beetles, lacewings,
The lettuce root aphid is a soil several areas of the tree. Also check
syrphid fly larvae, and the mummi-
dweller that attacks lettuce roots in for evidence of natural enemies such
A few aphid species attack parts of fied skins of parasitized aphids. Look Figure 6. Leaf curling caused by rosy
spring and summer,
plants other than leaves causing lettuce
and shoots. as lady beetles, lacewings, syrphid fly apple aphid.
for disease-killed aphids as well; they
plants to wilt and occasionally
The lettuce root aphid is a soil dweller die. larvae, and the mummified skins of
may appear off color, bloated, flat-
In
thatfall, this species
attacks often in
lettuce roots moves
spring to parasitized
tened, or fuzzy. aphids. Look for numbers
Substantial disease- from a tree. This type of monitoring
poplar trees, where it lettuce
overwinters killed aphids as well; they may appear Inoflandscape settings, you can monitor
and summer, causing plantsin to of any of these natural control factors is particular interest where there is
the egg stage and produces leaf galls off color, bloated, flattened, or fuzzy. aphids by using water-sensitive
a low tolerance for dripping honey- paper
wilt and occasionally die. In fall, this can mean the aphid population may
in spring.
species Themoves
often woolly toapple
poplaraphid
trees,in- Substantial
be numbers
reduced rapidly of any of
without these
the need dew, such as in groups of trees alonga
to measure honeydew dripping from
fests woody parts of apple roots and natural control factors can mean the tree. This type of monitoring is of par-
where it overwinters in the egg stage for treatment. city streets or in parks and for tall
limbs, often near ticular interest where there is a low tol-
and produces leafpruning wounds,
galls in spring. The aphid population may be reduced rap- trees where aphid colonies may be
and
woollycanapple
causeaphid
overall tree woody
infests decline if Ants are oftenthe
idly without associated with aphid
need for treatment. erance for dripping honeydew, such as
located too high to detect. (See Pests
roots are infested for several
parts of apple roots and limbs, often years. populations, especially on trees and in groups of trees along city streets or
shrubs, and frequently are a clue that of
in Landscape
parks and for Trees and Shrubs
tall trees in
where aphid
Heavy infestations of
near pruning wounds, and can cause crown and root Ants are often associated with aphid
an aphid infestation is present. If you References
colonies may forbemore details.)
located too high to
aphids
overall on treecarrots
declinemay weaken
if roots tops,
are infested populations, especially on trees and
causing
for several them to tear
years. Heavy off infestations
when carrots of
see largeand
shrubs, numbers
frequentlyof ants
areclimbing
a clue that Biological Pests of Landscape Trees and
detect. (See Control
are
crownharvested.
and root aphids on carrots may
your tree trunks, check
an aphid infestation is present. higher If upyouthe Shrubs in References for more details.)
tree for aphids or other honeydew- Natural enemies can be very impor-
weaken tops, causing them to tear off see large numbers of ants climbing
Management
when carrots are harvested.
producing insectscheck
your tree trunks, that might
higherbe uponthe Biological
tant Control
for controlling aphids, espe-
limbs
tree for aphids or other honeydew-food
and leaves. To protect their cially in gardens not
Natural enemies can be sprayed with
very important
Although aphids seldom kill a ma-
MANAGEMENT source, ants ward off many predators broad-spectrum pesticides (e.g.,
for controlling aphids, especially in
ture plant, the damage they do and producing insects that might be on
and parasites of aphids. Managing organophosphates,
gardens not sprayedcarbamates, and
with broad-spec-
unsightly honeydew they
Although aphids seldom kill a mature generate limbs and leaves. To protect their food
ants is a key component of aphid pyrethroids) that kill natural enemy
sometimes warrant control.
plant, the damage they do and unsightly Consider source, ants ward off many predators trum pesticides (e.g., organophosphates,
management. (See Cultural Control.) species as well
the nonchemical
honeydew controls
they generate discussed
sometimes war- and parasites of aphids. Managing ants carbamates, andaspyrethroids)
pests. Usually
thatnatu-
kill
below, as most
rant control. insecticides
Consider will de-
the nonchemical In
is landscape
a key component settings, you can
of aphid moni-
manage- ral enemy
natural populations
enemy species asdon’t
well appear
as pests.
stroy
controlsbeneficial
discussed insects
below,alongas most with the tor
insecti- aphids
ment. (See by using Control.)
Cultural water-sensitive in significant
Usually numbers
natural until aphids
enemy populations
pest. On mature trees, such as in cit- paper to measure honeydew dripping begin to be numerous.

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July 2013 Aphids
Aphids

Among the most

don’t appear important
in significant natural
numbers Table 1. Common Aphids on Vegetables and Flowers.
enemies
until aphidsarebegin
various species
to be of para-
numerous.
Common name Scientific name Common hosts
sitic wasps that lay their eggs inside
[Link]
Among Themost
skinimportant
of the parasitized
natural bean aphid Aphis fabae legumes,
aphid turns
enemies crusty and
are various golden
species brown,
of parasitic various woody
a formthat
wasps calledlay atheir
mummy. The genera-
eggs inside aphids ornamentals, and
(Figure 7). of
The skinparasites
of the parasitized flowers
tion time most is quite
aphid turns crusty
short when and golden
the weather is warm,brown,
so
aonce
formyou
called
begina mummy (Figure 8).on
to see mummies The
generation
your plants, time
theof mostpopulation
aphid parasites is
quite short
is likely to when the weather
be reduced is warm,
substantially
so once you begin
within a week or two. to see mummies
on your plants, the aphid population
Many predators
is likely also feed
to be reduced on aphids.
substantially
The
withinmost well or
a week known
two. are lady beetle
cabbage aphid Brevicoryne cole crops and
brassicae other mustard
adults and larvae, lacewing larvae,
family plants
soldierpredators
Many beetles, also
and feed
syrphid fly lar-
on aphids.
[Link]
The Naturally occurring
well known predators
are lady beetle
work
adultsbest, especially
and larvae, in garden
lacewing larvae,and
landscape situations.
soldier beetles, For photos
and syrphid and
fly larvae.
more information
Naturally occurringabout aphid
predators natu-
work best,
ral enemies,
especially see theand
in garden Natural Enemies
landscape situ-
Gallery.

green peach aphid Myzus persicae peppers, spinach,

A
tomato, cucurbits,
carrot, lettuce,
B legumes, corn,
flowers, flowering
plum, and stone
fruit

melon (cotton) aphid Aphis gossypii cucurbits, carrot,

citrus, many
Figure 7. Life cycle of an aphid parasite.
flowers, and
A: An adult parasite lays an egg inside
various woody
a live aphid. B: The egg hatches into a
landscape
parasite larva that grows as it feeds on the
ornamentals
aphid’s insides. C: After killing the aphid,
the parasite pupates. D: An adult wasp
emerges from the dead aphid then flies
off to find and parasitize other aphids.

potato aphid Macrosiphum potato, spinach,

euphorbiae lettuce, tomato,
and many others

Figure 8. Mummified aphid bodies indi-

cate that they have been parasitized. The
parasitic wasp (center) has emerged from
the circular hole in the top left mummy. Photos by J. K. Clark

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Aphids

Lady Beetle
ations. Releases
For photos and more information Table 2. Common Aphids of Fruit Trees.
about aphid natural enemies, see the Scientific Common
Applying commercially available lady Common name Comments
Natural Enemies Gallery on the UC IPM name hosts
beetles (the convergent lady beetle,
Web Site, [Link] green apple aphid Aphis pomi apple, pear,
Hippodamia convergens) may give
PMG/NE/[Link]. hawthorne,
some temporary control when prop- cotoneaster
erly handled, although most of them
Lady Beetle Releases. Applying com-
will disperse from your yard within
mercially available lady beetles (the
a few days.
convergent lady beetle, Hippodamia con-
vergens)
If releasingmayladygivebeetles,
some temporary
keep them con-
trol when properly
refrigerated handled,
until just beforealthough
let-
mostthem
ting of themgo,will
doingdisperse from your
so at dusk, as
yard within
those releaseda few days. daylight
in broad
will fly away immediately. Mist the
If releasing
lady beetlesladywithbeetles,
water keep them re-
just before leaf curl plum aphid Brachycaudus plum, curls
frigerated until just before letting them helichrysi prune leaves,
release, and also mist the surface of
goes to
go, doing
the so atare
plant you dusk, as thosethem
releasing released
onto. Asteraceae
in broad
Place thedaylight will fly
lady beetles away
at the imme-
base of in summer
diately. Mist
infested theor
plants lady beetles
in the with wa-
crotches
terlow
of justbranches.
before release,
Ladyand also mist
beetles will the
surface
crawl of theinto
higher planttheyou are releasing
plant in search
them
of [Link]
aphids. Place the lady beetles at the
of California
base of infested
research indicates plants
thatorhigh
in the crotch-
numbers
es lady
of of low branches.
beetles Lady beetles
are required will
to control
crawl higher
aphids. into the
One large, plant in
heavily search
infested mealy plum aphid Hyalopterus plum, curls and
of aphids.
rose bush University
required two of California
applications, pruni prune stunts
researcha indicates
spaced week apart, thatofhigh
about numbers
1,500 leaves,
of lady
lady beetles
beetles are For
each. required
more to control
informa- goes to
aphids.
tion aboutOne large, heavily
making infested
lady beetle releases, cattails and
roseUC
see bush required
IPM’s two applications,
convergent lady beetle reeds in
spaced summer
page in athe
week apart,Enemies
Natural of about Gallery.
1,500
lady beetles each. For more information
Aphids are very
about making lady susceptible to fungal
beetle releases, see
diseases when it is humid. These
UC IPM’s convergent lady beetle page
pathogens canEnemies
in the Natural kill entire colonies
Gallery,
of aphids when conditions are right.
[Link] rosy apple aphid Dysaphis apple curls
Look for dead aphids that have
NE/convergent_lady_beetle.html. plantaginea leaves,
turned reddish or brown; they’ll have goes to
a fuzzy,are
Aphids shriveled texture unlike
very susceptible the
to fungal plantain in
shiny, bloated,
diseases when ittan-colored mummies
is humid. These patho-
summer
that
gensform when
can kill aphids
entire are parasitized.
colonies of aphids
when conditions
Weather can alsoare [Link].
impact Look for
dead aphids
Summer heatthat haveCentral
in the turnedValley
reddish
or brown;
and desertthey’ll
areas have a fuzzy,
reduces shriv-
the popu-
eled texture
lations unlike
of many the shiny,
species, and bloated,
aphid
tan-colored
activity mummies
is also limitedthat formthe
during when
woolly apple aphid Eriosoma apple, pear, primarily
aphids are
coldest partparasitized.
of the year. However, lanigerum pyracantha, found
some aphids may be active year- hawthorn on wood
Weather
round, can also impact
especially [Link]-
in the milder, or roots,
Summer heat in the Central
tral coastal areas of California. Valley creates
and desert areas reduces the popu- galls in
Ant Management
lations of many species, and aphid roots and
waxy
activity
In some is also limited
situations antsduring the
tend aphids deposits
coldest
and feedpart of the
on the year. However,
honeydew aphids
some aphids
excrete. At themay
samebetime,
activeants
year-
pro-
round, especially in the milder, cen-
tect the aphids from natural enemies.
tral coastal areas of California.
If you see ants crawling up aphid- Photos by J. K. Clark

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2013 Aphids
Aphids

infested trees or woody

Ant Management. In someplants, put a
situations Table 3. Some Problematic Aphids on Woody Ornamentals.*
band
ants of sticky
tend aphidsmaterial
and feed(e.g.,
on Tangle-
the hon- Scientific Common
foot)
eydewaround
aphids the trunkAt
excrete. to the
prevent
same time, Common name
name hosts
Comments
ants
antsfrom climbing
protect the aphidsup. from
(Don’t apply
natural
ash leaf curl aphid Prociphilus ash (other causes
sticky material
enemies. If youdirectly
see ants to the bark
crawling upof
species Prociphilus leaves to
young or thin-barked
aphid-infested trees ortrees
woody or to trees
plants, species curl, distort,
that
put have
a bandbeen severely
of sticky pruned,
material (e.g.,as
Tan- attack and form
the material
glefoot) maythe
around have phytotoxic
trunk to prevent ef- other pseudo-
fects. Wrapclimbing
ants from the trunk [Link]
(Note:fabric
Don’ttree trees) galls
wrap
applyorsticky
duct material
tape anddirectly
apply sticky
to the
material to the or
bark of young wrap.)
thin-barked trees or
to trees that have been severely pruned,
Alternatively, ant stakes or container-
as the material may have phytotoxic
ized baits may be used on the ground
effects. Wrap the trunk with fabric
totree
control ants without affecting
wrap or duct tape and apply sticky
aphids or their natural enemies. crapemyrtle aphid Sarucallis crape
material to the wrap.) Alternatively, kahawaluokalani myrtle
Prune out other ant routes such as
ant stakes or containerized baits may
branches touching buildings, the
be used on the ground to control ants
ground, or other trees.
without affecting aphids or their natu-
Cultural Control
ral enemies. Prune out other ant routes
such as branches touching buildings,
Before planting
the ground, vegetables,
or other trees. check
surrounding areas for sources of
aphids
Culturaland Control
remove these sources.
Some aphids build up on weeds such
asBefore planting
sowthistle and vegetables,
mustards,check sur-
moving giant conifer aphid Cinara species fir, pine, may be
rounding areas for sources of aphids
onto related crop seedlings after they spruce, mistaken
and remove
emerge. these
On the sources.
other hand,Some
theseaphids
cedar for ticks
build up on weeds such as sowthistle
aphid-infested weeds can sometimes
and mustards,
provide an earlymoving
sourceonto related
of aphid
crop seedlings after they emerge.
natural enemies. Always check trans- On
the other hand, these aphid-infested
plants for aphids and remove them
weeds can sometimes provide an early
before planting.
source of aphid natural enemies. Al-
Where aphidtransplants
ways check populationsforare local-
aphids and
ized
removeon athem
few curled leaves or new
before planting.
shoots, the best control may be to hackberry woolly aphid Shivaphis celti hackberry produces
prune
Whereout these
aphid areas andare
populations dispose
localized waxy tufts
ofonthem.
a fewIn largeleaves
curled trees,or
some
newaphids
shoots,
thrive
the bestin control
the densemayinner
be tocanopy;
prune out
pruning
these areasoutand
these areas of
dispose can make
them. In the
habitat less suitable.
large trees, some aphids thrive in the
dense inner canopy; pruning out these
High levels of nitrogen fertilizer
areas can make the habitat less suitable.
favor aphid reproduction, so never
use more nitrogen than necessary.
High levels of nitrogen fertilizer favor
Instead, use a less soluble form of ni-
aphid reproduction, so never use more
trogen and
nitrogen thanapply it in small
necessary. portions
Instead, use a oleander aphid Aphis nerii oleander,
throughout the season rather
less soluble form of nitrogen and than all
apply milkweed
atitonce. Slow-release fertilizers such
in small portions throughout the sea-
asson
organic
ratherfertilizers
than all at or urea-based
once. Slow-release
time-release formulations are best. or
fertilizers such as organic fertilizers
urea-based
Because time-release
many vegetablesformulations
are sus-
are [Link] serious aphid damage
ceptible
primarily during the seedling stage,
Because
reduce manyby
losses vegetables
growing are suscep-
seedlings
under protective covers in theprimarily
tible to serious aphid damage garden,
induring the seedling
a greenhouse, stage, reduce
or inside and thenlosses * Green peach aphid, bean aphid, and melon aphid may also occur on many woody ornamentals.
Photos by J. K. Clark, except crapemyrtle aphid, Jim Baker, North Carolina State University, [Link]
by growing seedlings
transplanting them when undertheprotective
seed- continued on the following page ...

◆• 5
5 of
of77• ◆
June 2013
July 2013
Aphids
Aphids

lings in
covers arethe
older and in
garden, more tolerant of
a greenhouse, Table 3. Some Problematic Aphids on Woody Ornamentals.* ... continued from previous page
oraphid
insidefeeding.
and thenProtective covers
transplanting will
them Scientific Common
also the
when prevent transmission
seedlings are older of aphid-
and more Common name
name hosts
Comments
borne viruses.
tolerant of aphid feeding. Protective
rose aphid Macrosiphum rose
covers will also prevent transmission
Silver-colored reflective mulches rosae
of aphid-borne viruses.
have been successfully used to re-
duce transmission of aphid-borne vi-
Silver-colored reflective mulches have
ruses in summer squash, melon, and
been successfully used to reduce
other susceptible vegetables. These
transmission of aphid-borne viruses
mulches repel invading aphid popu-
inlations,
summer squash, their
reducing melon, and other
numbers on
susceptible
seedlings vegetables. These mulches
and small plants. Another
repel invading
benefit is thataphid
yieldspopulations, re-
of vegetables
ducing
grown on reflective mulches are and
their numbers on seedlings usu-
small plants. Another
ally increased by thebenefit is amount
greater that tuliptree aphid Illinoia tuliptree
yields of vegetables
of solar grown on
energy reflecting reflective
onto leaves. liriodendri
mulches are usually increased by the
To putamount
greater a reflective mulch
of solar in your
energy reflect-
garden,
ing remove all weeds and cover
onto leaves.
beds with mulch. Bury the edges
To put soil
with to holdmulch
a reflective them down.
in yourAfter
gar-
the remove
den, mulch is allinweeds
place,andcutcover
or burn
beds
3- tomulch.
with 4-inchBurydiameter holes
the edges andsoil
with plant
to
several seeds or a single transplant
hold them down. After the mulch is in
in each
place, cut one. In addition
or burn to repelling
3- to 4-inch diameter
holes and plant several seedssome
aphids, leafhoppers, and other * Green peach aphid, bean aphid, and melon aphid may also occur on many woody ornamentals.
or a sin- Photos by J. K. Clark, except crapemyrtle aphid, Jim Baker, North Carolina State University, [Link]
insects,
gle the mulch
transplant in eachwill [Link] crop
In addition
togrowth
repellingand control
aphids, weeds. When
leafhoppers, and
summertime temperatures aphids with larger
little damage. Larger so they
don’tdon’t kill natural enemies
some other insects, the mulch getwillhigh,
en- ber that most plants can tolerate they kill natural enemies that
however, remove mulches to prevent aphid
light to populations
moderate levels often rapidlywith
of aphids that migrate
migrate in afterinthe
after the spray.
spray.
hance crop growth and control weeds.
overheating
When summertime plants. temperatures get decline
little due to
damage. biological
Larger aphidcontrol
popula-or These and other insecticides with
high, however, remove mulches whenoften
tions hot rapidly
temperatures
declinearrive.
due to Often These and other insecticides with
Ready-to-use reflective mulchtoprod-
pre- contact-only activity are generally in-
vent overheating plants.
ucts include silver-colored plastic a forcefulcontrol
biological spray ofor water
when orhotwater-soap
tempera- contact-only activity are generally in-
effective in preventing damage from
tures arrive.
solution, evenOften
on alarge
forceful spray
street of
trees, effective in preventing damage from
sold in rolls. You can also make your aphids such as the leaf curl plum
Ready-to-use reflective mulch prod- water
whenorapplied
water-soap
withsolution, evenequip-
appropriate on aphids such as the leaf curl plum aphid
own by spray-painting construc- aphid or the woolly ash aphid, which
ucts large
ment, street
will trees,
providewhen appliedcontrol.
sufficient with or the woolly ash aphid, which are
tioninclude
paper,silver-colored plastic
landscape fabric, or sold
clear are protected by galls or distorted
inplastic. appropriate equipment, will provide protected by galls or distorted foliage.
If you
rolls. You canuse
alsoplastic mulches,
make your own
If insecticides are needed, insec- foliage. Also, don’t use soaps or oils
sufficient control. Also, don’t use soaps or oils on water-
byyou will need toconstruction
spray-painting use drip irrigation
paper, on water-stressed plants
ticidal soaps and oils are the best stressed plants or when theor when
tempera-
underneath.
landscape Landscape
fabric, fabric If
or clear plastic. and
you the temperature exceeds 90°F. These
most paper mulches will Ifchoices for most
insecticides situations.
are needed, Oils may
insecticidal ture exceeds 90°F. These materials may
use plastic mulches, you willallow
need water
to materials may
include
soaps andpetroleum-based horticul-
oils are the best choices be phytotoxic to be phytotoxic
some plants, sotocheck
some
to drip
use flow irrigation
through. underneath. Land- plants, sotest
check
for most
tural situations.
oils Oils mayoils
or plant-derived include
such labels and the labels andon
materials test the
a por-
scape fabric and most paper mulches materials on a portion of the foliage
Another way to reduce aphid popu- petroleum-based
as neem or canola horticultural oils
oil. These prod- tion of the foliage several days before
will allow water to flow through. several days
lations on sturdy plants is to knock or plant-derived
ucts kill primarilyoils by
such as neem or
smothering applying a fullbefore applying a full
treatment.
off the insects with a strong spray of canola oil. These productscoverage
kill primar- treatment.
Another way to reduce aphid popula- the aphid, so thorough of
water. Most dislodged aphids won’t ily
infested foliage is [Link]
by smothering the aphid, thor- Supreme-
Supreme-ororsuperior-type
superior-typeoilsoils
will kill
will
tions on sturdy plants is to knock off
be able to return to the plant, and ough
thesecoverage
materials of with
infested foliage
a high is
volume of overwintering eggs of aphids on fruit
the insects with a strong spray of water. kill overwintering eggs of aphids on
their honeydew will be washed off as required. Apply these materials with trees if applied as a delayed-dormant
Most dislodged aphids won’t be able to water, usually a 1 to 2% oil solution fruit trees if applied as a delayed-
well. Using water sprays early in the a high volume of water, usually a 1 to application just as eggs are beginning
return to the plant, in water, and target the underside of dormant application just as eggs are
day allows plantsand their
to dry offhoneydew
rapidly 2% oil solution in water, and target the to hatch in early spring. (On plums
will be washed off as well. Using water leaves as well as the top. Soaps, neem beginning to hatch in early spring.
in the sun and be less susceptible to underside of leaves as well as the top. dormant applications right after leaves
sprays early in
fungal [Link] day allows plants to oil, and horticultural oil kill only (On plums dormant applications
Soaps, neem oil, and horticultural oil have fallen in early November are pre-
dry off rapidly in the sun and be less aphids
kill only present on the on
aphids present daythe
they
dayarethey
right after leaves have fallen in early
ferred.) These treatments won’t give
ChemicaltoControl
susceptible fungal diseases. sprayed, soso
applications November are preferred.) These treat-
are sprayed, applicationsmay mayneed
needto complete control of aphids and prob-
When considering whether to apply tobeberepeated.
[Link]
Although these
these materi-
materi- ably aren’t justified for aphid control of
ments won’t give complete control
Chemical Control
insecticides for aphid control, re- als can kill some natural
als can kill some natural enemies enemies that
that aphids
alone butand
willprobably aren’t
also control softjustified
scale
member
When that most
considering larger to
whether plants
applycan arepresent
are presentononthe the plant
plant andand
hithit
by by
the for aphid
insects control
if they are aalone but Common
problem. will also
tolerate light
insecticides for to moderate
aphid levels
control, of
remem- the spray,
spray, they leave
they leave noresidue
no toxic toxic residue
so control
aphid soft scale
species insects
controlled if they
with theseare

◆6
• 6ofof77 ◆
•
June 2013 Aphids
July 2013 Aphids

types of oilsCommon
a problem. include the woolly
aphid apple
species Adequate
usually maderain or
in irrigation is required
spring when aphids Crops.
Dreistadt, S. H.,Univ.
Oakland: J. K. Calif.
Clark,Agric.
and M. L.
Nat.
aphid, green
controlled apple
with aphid,
these rosyofapple
types oils to move
first the product
become [Link] the soil Flint.
Res. 2004.
Publ. 8285.
Pests of Landscape Trees
aphid,
includemealy plum aphid,
the woolly apple and black
aphid, green to the roots and up into large trees, and and Shrubs: An Integrated Pest Manage-
cherry aphid. rosy apple aphid, mealy Adequate rain or irrigation is re-
apple aphid, it may take several weeks to see an ef Dreistadt,
ment Guide.S. 2nd
H., [Link]. Oakland:
K. Clark, and Univ.
M. L.
quired to move the product through
plum aphid, and black cherry aphid. fect on aphids feeding on leaves. One Calif.2004.
Flint. Agric. Nat.
Pests of Res. [Link]
Landscape [Link]
Many other insecticides are available the soil to the roots and up into large
application on hackberry is enough to Shrubs: An Integrated Pest Management
Many
to other
control insecticides
aphids are garden
in the home available trees, and it may take several weeks Flint, M. L. 1998. Pests of the Garden
control hackberry woolly aphid for two Guide, 2nd ed. Oakland: Univ. Calif.
to control aphids in the home garden
and landscape, including foliar-applied to see an effect on aphids feeding on and Small Farm: A Grower’s Guide to
to three One
years. See Pest Notes: -
Hackberry Agric. Nat. Res. Publ. 2nd
[Link]. Oakland:
and landscape, including foliar-
formulations of malathion, permethrin, leaves. application on hackberry Using Less Pesticide,
applied formulations Woolly Aphid listed in References for
and acephate (nonfood of malathion,
crops only). is enough to control hackberry woolly
more
Univ. Calif. Agric. Nat. Res. Publ.
permethrin, and acephate (nonfood
While these materials may kill higher
aphiddiscussion
for two toabout
threecontrol
years. methods
See 3332. M. L. 1998. Pests of the Garden and
Flint,
crops only). While these materials using imidacloprid.
Pest Notes: Hackberry Woolly Aphid for Small Farm: A Grower’s Guide to Using
numbers of aphids than soaps and oils, Lawson, A. B., and S. H. Dreistadt.
may kill higher numbers of aphids
their use should be limited, because
more discussion about control meth- Less Pesticide, 2nd ed. Oakland: Univ.
June 2005. Pest Notes: Hackberry
than soaps and oils, their use should
they also kill the natural enemies that
ods using imidacloprid. Calif. Agric. Nat. Res. Publ. 3332.
Woolly Aphid. Oakland: Univ. Calif.
be limited, because they also kill the
provide long-term control of aphids
natural enemies that provide long-
References Agric. Nat. Res. Publ. 74111. Also
and other pests, and they are associated Lawson,
[Link],
B., andhttp:/
S. H./[Link].
Dreistadt.
term control of aphids and other
with bee kills and environmental prob- REFERENCES
Bugg, R. L., R. G. Colfer, W. E. Chaney, June 2005. Pest Notes: Hackberry Wooly
[Link].
pests, and they are associated with H. A. Smith,
Bugg, R. L., [Link] J. Cannon.
G. Colfer, W. E.2008.
Chaney, Aphid. Oakland: Univ. Calif. Agric. Nat.
lems. Repeated applications of these
bee kills and environmental prob-
materials may also result in resistance H. A. Smith, and J. [Link]
Flower flies (Syrphidae) and 2008. Res. Publ. 74111. Also available online,
lems. Repeated applications of these Biological
to the material. Flower fliesControl Agents
(Syrphidae) andfor Aphids
Other in
Biologi - [Link]
materials may also result in resis- Vegetable Crops. Oakland: Univ. Calif.
cal Control Agents for Aphids in Vegetable PESTNOTES/[Link]. v
tance to the material. Agric. Nat. Res. Publ. 8285.
Insecticides such as oils and soaps are
also safer to use
Insecticides when
such children
as oils and
and soaps
pets maysafer
are also be present.
to use Formulations
when children AUTHOR: M. L. Flint, UC Statewide IPM University of California scientists and other
qualified professionals have anonymously peer
combining
and pets mayinsecticidal soaps
be present. and py-
Formula- Program, Davis/Entomology, UC Davis.
reviewed this publication for technical accuracy.
rethrins may provide
tions combining slightly more
insecticidal soaps The ANR Associate Editor for Pest Management
TECHNICAL EDITOR: M. L. Flint
and pyrethrins
knockdown thanmay
soapsprovide slightly
alone yet have managed this process.
To simplify information, trade names of products
more negative
fewer knockdown thanon
impacts soaps alone
natural EDITOR: M. L. Fayard have been used. No endorsement of named products
yet havethan
enemies fewer negative impacts
malathion, on
permethrin, is intended, nor is criticism implied of similar products
natural
and enemies
acephate, than pyrethrins
because malathion,break ILLUSTRATIONS: Figs. 1–2 and 4–6, J. K. that are not mentioned.
This material is partially based upon work
permethrin,
down and acephate, because
very quickly. Clark; Fig. 3, from Pests of the Garden and supported by the Extension Service, U.S. Department
pyrethrins break down very quickly. Small Farm; and Fig. 7, from Flint, M. L., of Agriculture, under special project Section 3(d),
Systemic insecticides are also available and S. H. Dreistadt. 1998. Natural Enemies Integrated Pest Management.
Systemic insecticides are also avail- Handbook. Oakland: Univ. Calif. Agric. Nat.
for aphid management, primarily for
able for aphid management, primar- Res. Publ. 3386. Produced by UC Statewide
woody ornamentals. These materials, Integrated Pest Management Program
ily for woody ornamentals. These
including imidacloprid, are very ef- University of California, Davis, CA 95616
materials, including imidacloprid,
fective and are especially useful for This and other Pest Notes are available at
are very effective and are especially
serious infestations of aphids such as [Link].
useful for serious infestations of
the woolly hackberry aphid, which
aphids such as the woolly hackberry For more information, contact the University of
is often not effectively controlled by
aphid, which is often not effectively California Cooperative Extension office in your
biological control or less toxic insecti- county. See your telephone directory for addresses
controlled by biological control or
cides. Imidacloprid can have negative and phone numbers, or visit [Link]
less toxic insecticides. Imidacloprid
impacts on predators, parasitoids, and
can have negative impacts on preda-
pollinators, so its use should be avoid- WARNING ON THE USE OF CHEMICALS
tors, parasitoids, and pollinators, so Pesticides are poisonous. Always read and carefully follow all precautions and safety recommendations
ed where soaps and oils will provide
its use should be avoided where given on the container label. Store all chemicals in the original, labeled containers in a locked cabinet or shed,
adequate control. To protect pollina- away from food or feeds, and out of the reach of children, unauthorized persons, pets, and livestock.
soaps and oils will provide adequate Pesticides applied in your home and landscape can move and contaminate creeks, rivers, and oceans.
tors, don't apply imidacloprid or
control. To protect pollinators, don’t Confine chemicals to the property being treated. Avoid drift onto neighboring properties, especially gardens
other systemic insecticides to plants containing fruits or vegetables ready to be picked.
apply imidacloprid or other systemic
in bloom or prior to bloom. Do not place containers containing pesticide in the trash or pour pesticides down the sink or toilet. Either use
insecticides to plants in bloom or the pesticide according to the label, or take unwanted pesticides to a Household Hazardous Waste Collection
prior to bloom. site. Contact your county agricultural commissioner for additional information on safe container disposal and
Home-use soil-applied imidacloprid for the location of the Household Hazardous Waste Collection site nearest you. Dispose of empty containers
Home-use
products aresoil-applied
often dilutedimidacloprid
with water by following label directions. Never reuse or burn the containers or dispose of them in such a manner that
they may contaminate water supplies or natural waterways.
products
in a bucketare
andoften
poureddiluted
aroundwith
thewater
base
inthe
of a bucket
tree orand poured
plant. aroundapplica-
Professional the ANR NONDISCRIMINATION AND AFFIRMATIVE ACTION POLICY STATEMENT
basecan
tors of use
the soil
treeinjectors,
or [Link]
Professional
provide The University of California prohibits discrimination or harassment of any person in any of its programs
applicators
better controlcanwithuse soil
less injectors,
runoff potential. or activities. The complete nondiscrimination policy statement can be found at [Link]
files/[Link]. Inquiries regarding the university’s equal employment opportunity policies may be directed
which provide
Applications are better
usuallycontrol
made inwith
spring to Linda Marie Manton, Affirmative Action Contact, University of California, Davis, Agriculture and Natural
less runoff
when aphidspotential.
first becomeApplications
apparent. are Resources, One Shields Avenue, Davis, CA 95616, (530) 752-0495.

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