Aphids are one of the most famous plant infestations and exist across the known world. With that in mind, they are also one of the most dangerous, spreading fast across a garden or arboretum. You will want to get rid of them as fast as you find them.
If you wish to know how to remove them, this article should help. Below we have listed information on how to find these creatures, what they can do to your plants, and how to cure your plants of their spread. So, read on and find out how to protect your trees from this menace.
What are Aphids?
The aphid species is a common insect, known for drinking the sap of plants. Their danger does not lie in a single aphid, but large swarms of them that can drain a plant of its vital fluids.
On top of this, aphids often secrete “Honeydew”. This sticky fluid is a common vector for mold and other diseases, often harming the plant it exists on. The aphids themselves are also potential hosts to viruses that can affect the trees you look after.
Where are Aphids Found?
Aphid infestations are not limited to the United States of America. They are a worldwide pest and have destroyed large swathes of crops across the globe. As such, anywhere from the Washington coast to Southern Maryland could be a potential location you find these insects.
On an individual plant, they are also found anywhere from the tip of the plant down into the roots themselves. They often target a specific plant, but it is not uncommon for them to spread to others in the local area.
If you use high-nutrient food for plants, such as nitrogen fertilizer, be careful. You may accidentally be increasing the food the aphids have access to. Watch out when choosing to buy it in case you are making a problem worse.
Signs of Aphids
Aphids feed on the sap of plants. As such, they need to access the inside of the tissue and they do this by piercing the outside of the plant with a mouthpiece.
Along with the rest of a swarm, this can cause a lot of damage to a plant. Anything from damage to flower buds, leaf stunting, or yellowing. Of course, another sign is that you will see the aphids themselves moving across the surface of the plant.
How to Treat Aphids
Aphids are often affected by contact insecticides. You may need more than one application, especially on particularly large or tall plants. So, do not be surprised if the creatures survive the first treatment.
Pruning aphids is often also suggested as a solution. Although, we would not recommend you do this for a large tree or arboretum.
Hiring a Professional
Now you understand how to deal with Aphids, you may want some help, especially if the infection is strong enough. With that in mind, we are here to help you. If you are in the Southern Maryland area, we would be happy to talk to you about what we can offer.
You only need to send us a message and explain your situation and we will let you know what we can do. So, contact us today.