Congregating on lower leaf surfaces, they pierce the plant and suck sap. Leaves curl downward and pucker. Wilting and discoloration may follow. Aphids secrete honeydew, the plants become sticky, and sooty mold develops. Sooty mold can reduce light penetration, subsequently reducing yield and quality.
Winged forms migrate to other hosts in late spring.
During these migratory flights, aphids may spread viral diseases from infected volunteer plants and weeds to healthy crops. In Georgia, the aphids are nearly all females. Successive generations of females, mainly wingless, are produced throughout the year. Winged migrants develop whenever overcrowding occurs or food becomes scarce. Many generations may occur per year.