Treating and Controlling Root Aphids

Root aphids are common garden pests found in potted plants, greenhouses, and gardens, their feeding will reduce plants’ vigor causing garden plants to become susceptible to mildew, root rot, and other diseases. Early detection and treatment are important for a plant’s health and vigor.

There are numerous ways to control root aphids if you are having issues with these pests it is not the end for your prized garden plants, here is what to do to manage their population where (root aphids) there’re no longer a threat.

Signs of Root Aphids

Signs that indicate the presence of root aphids.

• Leaves are smaller than normal.
• The leaves of plants are discolored.
• Leaves are damaged turning yellowish to brown.
• Plant leaves begin to wilt.
• White residue is seen that has the appearance of fungal growth.
• Stunted plant growth.
• The plant’s roots are damaged.

Root Aphid Identification

To properly identify root aphids here’s what to look for.

Root aphids are not easily seen because they live in the soil or below ground where they feed or suck the sap from a plant’s root system which means symptoms above ground level call for some digging below the soil line to get to the root of the problem. These garden pests are small, possess soft pear-shaped bodies, and vary in colors from greenish to white, whitish, yellow, or brown. They have antennas and 6 legs, and depending on their stage can either have wings or be wingless.

Root Aphid Life Cycle

The nymphs or the young of root aphids take about 9 to 10 days on average to reach maturity, their life expectancy is estimated to be 30 days depending on the species.

How to Control Root Aphids Without Pesticides

The first control to root aphids is to use the non-pesticide approach that can protect against soil contamination and possibly wind drift that can reach beneficial insects and pollinators that can lead to their injury or death.

• Make sure you’re growing healthy plants because healthy plants are more able to withstand and regain their vigor when facing garden pest or disease issues.
• Check the roots of seedlings or plugs before repotting or planting to ensure there are no root aphids.
• If root aphids are discovered make sure to thoroughly wash the roots to get rid of this pest and repot plants in fresh healthy soil.
• Plant root parts that are root aphid-infested and damaged should be pruned or removed from the plant.
• Take cuttings of healthy plants that are infected.

Beneficial nematodes

The introduction of beneficial nematodes into infected soil will help to control root aphids and other soil-borne pests.

Dispose of Infested Soil

Avoid dropping infected soil or stepping in it which can cause insects to be transferred to healthy garden areas.

How to Control Root Aphids with Pesticides

When growing plants in pots or containers or in the ground your first line of defense is to grow healthy plants meaning proper cultural practices that involve growing potted plants in the right soil type, the right amount of sunlight, and water also include a fertilizer program to provide the required nutrients.

If insecticides must be used make sure and incorporate the right pesticide, when treating root aphids make sure and follow the manfacture’s direction on the label for proper use that will give the best results. Treating potted plants with broad-spectrum systemic insecticides can be watered into the soil. The plant’s root system will take up or absorb the systemic insecticide, as root aphids feed on the treated plant root will ingest the insecticide leading to their death.

Conclusion

Controlling root aphids can become a challenge especially if there is an infestation, early detection is key to treating these garden pests. If your garden plants are showing the above-ground symptoms don’t delay but take quick action to stop root aphids in their tracks don’t allow them to take over your garden. The implementation of these proven methods will help manage, control, and eliminate the root aphid population.