Rocklin Aphid Control 

To humans, no, not directly. But aphids can be quite damaging to plants, such as crops, which means they can destroy our farms, trees, and gardens if left unchecked.

Aphids tend to be a nuisance among those growing fruits, flowers, and ornamental plants, as they tend to disfigure these with their honeydew secretions and the subsequent growth of sooty mold.

Aphids in small numbers do minimal damage. But these insects are considered to be some of the most destructive agricultural pests in temperate regions. Infestations of aphids have been known to occur, causing discoloration, spotting, or puckering of leaves.

Most species of aphids suck up the cell contents of plants and are (relatively) harmlessly with their piercing mouthparts. A few, however, inject toxic substances with their saliva.

So, in addition to the harm they cause to plants from literally sucking the life out of them, certain species of aphids are also vectors for as many as 100 different plant viruses.

Understanding Aphid Reproduction and Behavior

Different species of aphids have different life cycles. But as far as reproduction goes, if there’s one thing that’s common among all these species of aphids, is that aphids are quite prolific. Individual aphids can produce several hundred offspring in a month.

These bugs can reproduce rapidly by giving birth via unfertilized eggs— a curious process known as parthenogenesis. This means female aphids don’t need a father to spawn new aphids. Newly born aphid nymphs become full-grown reproducing adults within about a week. At this point, they can produce up to five offspring per day for up to 30 days!

While aphids might look plump and relatively immobile that they could never fly far, they can travel hundreds of miles with the assistance of low-level jet winds.

Ants also often carry aphids around. Ants are primarily fond of the sugary, energy-rich waste exuded by aphids. Some species of ants transport these aphids to new locations for them to feed, and zealously protect these against other marauding insects.

Effective Strategies for Preventing Aphid Infestations

An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Before you have a full-blown infestation of aphids in your garden, consider taking some preventative measures first.

Utilizing Companion Plants to Deter Aphids

One effective way is through companion planting. Certain plants near others help in keeping aphids away:

Aphids are especially attracted to mustard plants (Brassica and Sinapis) and watercress or garden cress plants (Nasturtium). What this means is that you can plant these near more valuable crops, herbs, or ornamentals, so aphids choose to hang out there instead of on your prize plants.

Of course, Don’t forget to check your trap plants regularly to keep aphid populations down, as they can jump to your valued plants once it gets too crowded among your mustard and garden cress plants.

Natural Aphid Repellants for Your Garden

Aphids are naturally repelled by catnip, so feel free to have these around your garden (you’ll be attracting quite a number of cats, though).

Also, garlic and chives repel aphids when planted near lettuce, peas, and rose bushes.

Encouraging Natural Predators to Control Aphids

Don’t forget that certain insects feed on aphids as well (see above). You can order supplemental populations these insects online to keep aphid populations controlled within your farm or garden.

Using Horticultural Oil for Aphid Management

For fruit or shade trees, spray dormant horticultural oil to kill overwintering aphid eggs.