There are almost as many methods to control aphids as there are species of aphid.
Mixed life stages of aphids Whitney Cranshaw, Colorado State University, Bugwood.org
Published December 07, 2021 | Updated December 31, 2022
Photos courtesy of (top) UGA Dept. of Plant Pathology; (bottom) Whitney Cranshaw, Colorado State University, Bugwood.org
Aphids are a very common problem. They can be easy to control, but before you treat, make sure Mother Nature has not already taken care of the problem for you.
Aphids frequently can be found on roses, milkweed, crape myrtle, perennials, and herbs but most plant species will host at least one aphid species.
Removing every aphid is not possible or advisable. In most cases aphids will occur at low densities. If aphids become abundant enough to cause distorted growth or damage flower buds, intervention may be warranted. The decision comes down to the amount of insects and damage you can tolerate and for how long. Many aphid infestations disappear in a matter of weeks as natural enemies colonize the plant.
