Symptoms
Aphids damage crops directly by distorting leaves and flowers as they feed. The honeydew they excrete as they feed promotes the growth of black sooty moulds which in turn reduce the crops photosynthesis as well as its aesthetic value. Dust, dirt and skins shed in molting adhere to the viscous substance, making plants unsightly. Severe aphid infestations can result in defoliation of the plant and loss of the flower crop. Furthermore, aphids transmit several plant viruses.
Management
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) including scouting & identification, cultural controls, biological controls and application of insecticides.
Aphid Life Cycle
Understanding a pest's life cycle is vital to maintaining control. Certain products will be more effective than others in targeting the different stages of the life cycle to gain maximum control.
