Our very wet year is producing a lot of lush new growth, and aphids like lush new growth.
Almost every plant has one or more aphid species that occasionally feed on it. Low to moderate numbers of aphids usually are not damaging to gardens or landscape trees.
Although, aphids can curl leaves and produce stick honeydew they rarely kill plants and can usually be washed off with water. When aphid numbers are high, natural enemies often feed on them, eliminating the need for pesticides. When pesticides are necessary, use less-toxic products such as insecticidal soaps or oils.
Aphids like lush new growth. Don’t over fertilize. Expect aphids in the spring. Ants protect aphids from their natural enemies. Keep ants off plants to help the beneficials do their job.
To reduce aphids, prune out infested leaves and stems. Knock aphid populations off plants by shaking the plant or spraying it with a strong stream of water. We noticed aphids on our chard at the demonstration garden. I washed them off with a strong stream of water! It really does work. My favorite way to reduce aphid populations is to squish them with my fingers. Many aphids are heat-intolerant and will be gone by summer.
Beneficial insects include lady bugs (larvae and adults), and lacewings. ■