Episode #330 | Original Air Date: June 4, 2021
Aphids, or “plant lice,” may infest almost any plant, especially roses and crapemyrtles.
Aphids are soft-bodied, pear-shaped insects less than one-eighth of an inch long. They’re usually green but can also be black, yellow, or even blue!
Aphids have piercing-sucking mouthparts and cause damage by feeding on plant juices. They love new growth, and can be found throughout the year.
Inspect plants for curling new growth or a black coating on the leaves. The insects themselves are often found on stems or the undersides of leaves.
A forceful stream of water may be enough to control aphids. If an insecticide is needed, try using a horticultural oil or insecticidal soap first.
Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ in a Minute is a production of the University of Florida’s Florida-Friendly Landscaping™ Program, IFAS Extension, and WUFT-FM in cooperation with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection.