Check the plants again in two weeks to catch any late emerging nymphs. Aphids Every plant seems to have some type of aphid which may feed on it. Aphids also produce considerable honeydew, a sugary excrement, which is attractive to ants and may allow for the growth of black sooty mold. Aphids may be any color with winged and nonwinged forms present in a colony. Most of the reproduction is asexual, with females giving live birth to the nymphs.
Populations can therefore explode in a short period of time.
Fortunately, there are numerous predators and parasites which attack aphids. Lady beetles, lacewings and aphid wasps are good examples. Learn how to identify these beneficials and do not apply pesticides when they are active. Often, the beneficials arrive after an aphid population has built up to alarming numbers. Whiteflies Whiteflies are not true flies but relatives of aphids and scales.