Aphids on Vegetable Crops (6251)

Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that feed in clusters on the undersides of leaves or near the tender growing points. They are pear-shaped, come in a wide variety of colors, and attack many different vegetable crops. This pest sucks plant sap, causing leaves to become bleached, puckered, or twisted. They also spread a number of different plant viruses. Aphids reproduce rapidly, and many generations are produced in a growing season.

Many naturally occurring predators and parasites, including ladybird beetle adults and larvae, usually keep aphid populations in check. Look closely at your infested plants for signs of beneficial insect activity before taking any action against aphid colonies. Aphids that have been parasitized will turn brown and die. Also, exit holes used by emerging adult wasps can be seen in the backs of parasitized aphids. A spray of water or application of insecticidal soap can also be employed. Avoid over-fertilizing with nitrogen fertilizers, as this produces lush growth attractive to aphids.

For more information on this subject, Please visit the College of Agricultural Sciences Publications Web site.

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