Look out! Are aphids hiding around leaves?

Aphids are commonly called plant lice. They are tiny and feed on the plants on which they live and subsequently destroy. Aphid control products are important to agriculturists and professional gardeners since these small creatures are some of the most destructive pests that can invade a garden. Controlling aphids is always at the top of the gardener's "to do" list.

The most common aphids are the white and the green varieties. They attach themselves to the undersides of new leaves and in the bud area. They like the soft parts of the plant like the shoots or the newly formed leaves.

Aphids and ants are closely related to each other. They do not only look alike, but they complement each other's activities. Aphids produce a substance called honeydew on their bodies. If there are lots of them secreting this substance at a time, big droplets are formed. Honeydew is sweet and draws ants. So, if there are aphids in your garden, most probably, there will be ants around too.

Aphid infestation happens very simply. Aphids are born pregnant. Once they are big enough to fly, they look for plants on which to feed and to deposit their young. Each aphid has the ability to produce as many as sixty offspring at a time. You do the math. It doesn't take long to have a full blown infestation.

Gardeners detest aphids because they can suck a plant dry. The leaves turn yellow, wilt, and eventually die. There are some plants that are highly sensitive to the saliva of aphids so that they immediately begin to curl and deteriorate.

Aphids serve as vectors of plant diseases. Plants acquire viruses and exhibit symptoms, principally a mosaic pattern of light and dark on the leaves. Stunting, vein clearing and enation, ringspots, yellowing, and deformed growth can also be observed. At the first sign of any of these problems, aphid control the gardener's first priority.

Things to Do Before Taking Aphid Control Measures

Before you select an aphid control measure, consider the following factors.

Determine the extent of your infestation

Check which of your plants are susceptible to aphids and which are not likely to be effected. In reality, strong sturdy tr ees and shrubs are not likely to be infested with aphids insects. They like small plants, especially the green leafy vegetables.

Consider your tolerance level

If the plant aphids present within your area are not that far-reaching, maybe you can treat the aphids locally in that area of your garden rather than treating the entire space. Ladybugs and other similar beneficial insects do not come out in the open unless there are aphids around. A handful of aphids may be fine to serve as a food source for other insects that you do want in your garden.

Know the aphid control methods you can use

Right now, there are different ways to control aphids. You can go for the less-toxic control, or the natural remedies for aphids. You also have the option of using insecticides to wipe these insects out.

Continue to: The Different Ways in Controlling Aphids

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