Botanical classification
Scientific name: Aphidoidea
Family:- Aphididae
Table of contents
What is Aphids
Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects in every garden that feed on nutrient-rich fluid from plants. In large numbers, they can significantly weaken plants, damaging flowers and fruits. It is therefore important to control them before breeding begins. They can have several generations in one season. To some extent they are easier to control
How to Identify in plant
Aphids are tiny (adults are less than 1/4-inch in size), different species can appear white, black, brown, yellow, pale green, even! Some may have a waxy or woolly coating. They have pear-shaped bodies with long antennae (young aphids) look similar to adults.
Adults are usually wingless, but most species can develop a winged form when populations are crowded, so that when food quality is poor, insects can travel to other plants, breed, and start a new colony. . Aphids usually feed in large groups, although you may occasionally see them singly or in small numbers.
Damaging symptoms
- Aphids pierce the stems of plants to suck out the nutrient-rich sap, thus weakening the plant and causing it to die.
- Look for symptoms such as curling, curling or yellowing leaves to spot an aphid infestation. Check the undersides of leaves, as aphids like to hide.
- If a sticky substance appears on the leaves or stems, this may be a sign that aphids are infesting the plant. This honeydew can attract other insects, such as ants.
- Honeydew can develop a fungal growth known as sooty mold, which causes both the branches and leaves to appear black.
Control method of aphids
- Try spraying infected plants with a strong stream of water.
- You can control aphids by frequently spraying the plant's leaves with a mild solution of water and a few drops of dish soap.
- The soapy water should be reapplied every 2-3 days for 2 weeks.