Aphids feed on a wide range of greenhouse crops. A number of species exist, but one of the most common is the green peach aphid. They feed particularly on buds and the undersides of leaves by inserting their tube-like piercing mouthparts and withdrawing sap. A secondary problem arises from sugary honeydew excreted by the aphids. Also, aphids are able to transmit viral diseases.
Aphids normally give birth to living female nymphs.
These nymphs can mature and begin reproduction in 7 to 10 days under greenhouse conditions. Each aphid can give birth to 50 to 100 nymphs over a 30 day period. Winged females appear when overcrowding occurs or food supplies become low. When cold weather becomes imminent, males and females appear outdoors and mate. Eggs are laid which often overwinter successfully in Oklahoma.