by Sharon Brook

Created on: May 21, 2009

If you don't know what an aphid is, but might have an idea, here's some information that will give you a bigger perspective on one of nature's tiniest insects.

What is an Aphid?

It's best to first describe what an aphid is, before you decide to start going outside to look for one. First of all, it's very difficult to spot an aphid individually- which is something that is very rare to see. The average size of an aphid is very small, in comparison to an ant. An aphid typically measures anywhere from 1/32 to 1/8 of an inch. Secondly, aphids are naturally found in colonies or large congregated groups. The best locations to search for aphids are on the stems, leaves, roots, and shoots of a plant.

Why are they considered pests?

As mentioned previously, aphids are usually found in multiple numbers. Which translates into- one bad habit develops into one gigantic problem. Aphids feed off of plants by sucking out its vital nutrients, thereby dehydrating the plant and causing it to die off. In vast aphid populations, entire agricultural crops such as potatoes, citrus plants, sugar beets, and cereals can be ravaged and destroyed due to aphid feeding habits. Also, aphids are capable of spreading plant diseases and viruses from one plant to another. In essence they can be responsible for causing plant poisoning by moving from one plant to another. Not all aphids are winged, but for those that are, these can travel for many miles by riding with the wind.

How do I protect my plants and garden from Aphids?

Honestly, it's fairly simple to exterminate aphids. You don't need to purchase special machines or pesticide chemicals to eliminate them from your garden. First, identify which plants are affected by aphids. For example, look for these common symptoms of plant aphid infestation- spotted or wilted leaves, delayed growth, and/or dullness in overall color. To get rid of them, all that you really need is a spray bottle filled with water, and that's it! Pick any plant that shows signs of aphid infestation, then blast them away with a quick squeeze of the trigger. This is the most economical way to perform your own D.I.Y. pest control, but if you prefer to do it faster, there are pesticides that can also help.

Another good idea to use in ridding your precious garden of aphids is to introduce ladybugs into your garden. You'll be able to benefit from using ladybugs in that you don't have to spend all day figuring out which plants need saving, and having to run around all day spraying them with your spray bottles. Ladybugs are natural predators of aphids and feed off of them for food supply, as do some species of butterflies and other insects. Most nurseries and gardening centers should carry ladybugs in cartons or containers for purchase, and ready for use.

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