Aphids
Small green, black or yellow insects that colonize shoots and buds.
Updated on 2026-07-17
Overview
Aphids reproduce at astonishing speed: a single female generates 100 offspring in a week. They favour new growth — shoots and buds — and produce a sticky honeydew that attracts ants and fosters sooty mould.
Differential diagnosis
Visible colony on shoots + sticky honeydew = aphids. Moving dots = thrips. Immobile = scale.
Natural remedies
2% potassium soap sprayed on the colony every 3 days. Ladybugs as natural predators.
Treatments
Natural pyrethrum for severe infestations; apply in evening hours to spare pollinators.
Prevention
Moderate nitrogen feeding: excess N attracts aphids.