Correct identification is an important first step in pest control.
Aphids are small green, yellowish, reddish, or blackish soft bodied insects that suck the juices from the leaves and stems of plants. They excrete drops of honeydew from their anus, which then attracts other insects like ants.
Aphids can be found on leaves and stems of plants
Aphids are easily managed by an appropriately labeled insecticide. Focus should be on plan stems, undersides of leaves, and anywhere the aphids are seen. Aphids may also be controlled naturally by purchasing live lady bugs and releasing them into your yard.
NAME:
Reduvius personatus
DIET:
Plant juices
IMPACT:
Can cause yellowing of leaves and stunted shoots
Although aphids rarely kill mature plants, control may be warranted to keep plants healthy, prevent unsightly damage, and to prevent the production of honeydew.
Monitor for aphids regularly in order to catch infestations early. Weekly plants checks are recommended. It is easier to solve issues early before the damage has gotten bad enough to curl plant leaves. Control at this point is more difficult.
Releasing natural predators like ladybug larvae can give temporary control of aphids. The ladybugs often disperse and leave your yard after a few days but this can offer a reduction in aphid numbers.
Ant management can be helpful in controlling aphids. Ants often protect aphids from predators so controlling the ants will help control the aphids.
Cultural practices can have a major impact on aphid populations Some best practices are:
Use slow-release fertilizers. High nitrogen levels promote aphid populations.
Prune leaves or shoots that are curled or heavily infested when infestations are isolated to a few areas.
Knock off aphids with a strong blast of water. Most aphids will not make it back to the plant.
Cover small seedlings with protective covers or grow in greenhouse or inside. Young plants are most susceptible to aphids.
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Pests can be difficult to control, but that’s what we are here for. We create a strategic plan to gain control of your problem and make sure we get results.
We take a scientific approach to pest control. We start with an inspection and assessment to help us identify the pest, locate where they are, and create a specific plan for your property. Every home and business is different and requires a unique strategy.
Proper pest management starts with a detailed inspection and assessment from an expert pest professional before treatment. Thorn Pest Solutions uses a three-step process rooted in science to eliminate pests with long-term results.
First, we identify the root problem(s) with a site assessment. Pests are almost always an indicator of an environmental condition. This will determine the best actions to provide short and your long-term results against pests.
Next, we develop a plan to fix the problems we discovered. This includes solving current pest issues, eliminating conducive conditions, and monitoring for future pest activity. Good pest management starts with a good plan.
Lastly, we implement the solutions we developed including inspection, monitoring, and preventing future pest infestations. Good pest control requires a good offense and not just defense. Prevention is key.