Case Study - Aphids in the LandscapeIdentifying
Aphids are small soft bodied insects with long slender mouth parts which they use to pierce stems, leaves and other plant parts and suck out plant fluids.
Damage to Plants
Large populations can cause curling, yellowing, and distortion of leaves; stunting shoots. Some Aphids inject a toxin into plants, further distorting growth.
Managing Aphids
Plants should be monitored by someone knowledgeable. Once identified, the following are least toxic methods used to reduce them.
Biological: Beneficial insects such as the Lady Beetle or Lacewing are natural predators.
Cultural: Wipe off or prune and dispose of them; knock them off with a strong spray of water
Chemical (non toxic): Horticultural Oil or insecticidal soal
Education is key. Landscapes can tolerate a certain level of pests without resulting in significant, or even noticeable damage.