Aphid Problems...

There are many different aphid species, which are also known as plant lice. They can be recognized by their small, pear shaped soft-bodied appearance on the underside of leaves. They can measure up to 6 mm in total length and can be green, yellow, red, purple, brown or black. They all primarily feed on the sap of leaves and young shoots of plants.

Through their enormous reproductive ability, they can cause severe damage. The variety common in gardens in Canada are particularly fond of roses. When aphids feed on the sap of the leaves and young shoots, the leaves may curl up, or when the infestation occurs early in the season, the plant may die altogether. The plant tries to compensate for the loss of sap taken by aphids by sending more nutrients to the affected area to try to overcome it's reduction in growth. Unfortunately, this only helps the aphid colony to grow. Aphids also leave a sticky secretion on the plant leaves and stems.

When the colony is overpopulated, aphids have the amazing ability to develop offspring that have wings. This ability allows the new aphid generation to move to a new location when the home location is over-populated.

Insect Solutions