Problem Identifier Unit Screen//v.w/ RR Template

Problem Identifier Unit Screen//v.w/ RR Template Rose Aphid

Problem
Tiny (1/8 inch), green or pink soft-bodied insects cluster on leaves, stems, and developing buds. When insects are numerous, flower buds are usually deformed and may fail to open properly. A shiny, sticky substance often coats the leaves. A black sooty mold may grow on the sticky substance. Ants may be present.

Analysis
(Macrosiphum rosae)

Rose aphids do little damage in small numbers. Plants can tolerate fairly high populations without much effect. However, the aphids are extremely prolific, and populations can rapidly build up to damaging numbers during the growing season. Damage occurs when the aphid sucks the juices from the rose stems and buds. The aphid is unable to digest fully all the sugar in the plant sap and excretes the excess in a fluid called honeydew, which often drops onto the leaves below. A sooty mold fungus may develop on the honeydew, causing the rose plants to appear black and dirty. Ants feed on the sticky substance, and are often present where there is an aphid infestation. When aphid populations are high, flower quality and quantity are reduced.

Solution
Spray with an insecticide containing acephate or pyrethrins, or with insecticidal soap when clusters of aphids are noticed. Repeat the treatment if the plant becomes reinfested.

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