They feed by sucking on the plant juices. They are most often found on tender new growth and on the underside of the leaves. This feeding reduces plant vigor and can cause leaf curling and failure of the buds to open. Aphids secrete a sticky substance called honeydew, which is very attractive to ants. A black sooty mold may also grow on the honeydew.
Aphids reproduce very quickly and are found in colonies.
They have many natural enemies, including ladybugs, lacewings, and some wasps. Ladybugs can be purchased at Bachman's Garden Centers at certain times of the year. To keep the aphid population in check, hand spraying with water will knock the aphids off the plant. Aphids lack the mobility to find their way back to the plant when they've been disturbed. Insecticidal soap, horticultural oils, and other organic methods will control aphids and are not lethal to most aphid predators.