Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that can be found in various colors, such as green, yellow, or black. They are common pests in Ohio and can cause significant damage to trees and shrubs. These tiny sap-sucking insects feed on plant juices, causing leaves to curl and stunt growth. Aphids also excrete a sticky substance called honeydew, which attracts ants and promotes the growth of sooty mold. To combat aphid infestations, it is advisable to schedule professional tree and shrub insect control treatments. Additionally, investing in a comprehensive tree and shrub care program can help protect your plants from aphids and other pests, ensuring their health and vitality.

What are aphids, and what kind of damage can they cause to plants?

Many green aphids on a leaf with two holes on a property in Mansfield, OH.

Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that belong to the family Aphididae. They are commonly found on trees and shrubs in Ohio and can cause significant damage to these plants. Aphids feed by sucking the sap from the leaves, stems, and buds of plants. This feeding activity weakens the plants and can lead to stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and the development of distorted or curled foliage.

Aphids also excrete a sticky substance called honeydew, which can attract ants and promote the growth of sooty mold, a black fungus that covers the leaves and branches of plants. In severe infestations, aphids can cause the leaves to drop prematurely, reducing the overall health and vigor of the trees and shrubs.

Moreover, aphids can transmit plant viruses as they move from one plant to another. These viruses can further weaken the plants and make them more susceptible to other diseases and pests. Therefore, it is crucial to address aphid infestations promptly to prevent further damage to your trees and shrubs.

How do you deal with aphids?

To effectively deal with aphids, it is recommended to schedule professional tree and shrub insect control treatments. Professionals have the knowledge and expertise to identify aphid infestations and apply the appropriate treatments to eliminate these pests. They may use insecticides or other targeted treatments to control aphids and prevent further damage to your plants.

In addition to professional treatments, it is also beneficial to invest in a comprehensive tree and shrub care program. Such programs typically include regular fertilization treatments to provide your plants with the necessary nutrients to recover from any aphid-related damage. Fertilization helps strengthen the plants and improve their overall resilience to pests, including aphids.

Furthermore, professionals can keep an eye out for any issues during their visits to your property. They can detect early signs of aphid infestations or other problems and take appropriate action to address them. By catching aphid infestations early on, professionals can prevent them from spreading and causing extensive damage to your trees and shrubs.

Aphids can be green, black, brown, yellow, or pink, depending on the species and the host plant they infest.

Call us today to sign up for our tree and shrub insect control service.

At Free Spray Lawn Care, we offer a tree and shrub insect control service that includes six visits throughout the year to effectively eliminate any infestations, including aphids. Our team of professionals utilizes top-quality products and treatments to ensure optimal results. Additionally, our tree and shrub program also includes disease control and fertilization treatment to keep your plants in great health.

This service is offered to residential and commercial properties in Mansfield, Wooster, Strongsville, and surrounding areas in Ohio. Give us a call today at 419-529-5296 to sign up for our tree and shrub insect control service and protect your plants from aphid infestations. We look forward to working with you and helping you maintain a healthy and vibrant landscape!