With Aphid Infestation On The Rise, Effective Aphid Control Is Necessary

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(Free-Press-Release.com) June 24, 2010 --

Heavy aphid infestations can destroy terminal buds in cotton and other plants. The result is stunted growth and smaller yields. Terry Pitts, an Oklahoma State University Extension integrated pest management specialist, has reported aphid infestations in new cotton in southwestern Oklahoma. He suggests farmers keep a close eye on their crops, especially those cotton fields that are next to pastures and weedy areas. Pitt says that aphids are appearing in cotton fields earlier this year. Aphids feed on new growth primarily on the underside of leaves, making young plants extremely susceptible to damage.

Aphids are highly prolific insects with long legs and antennae. Their pear-shaped bodies have two tube-like structures, called cornicles on their hind end. Aphids feed on sap, which can be found in the phloem vessels of plants. To extract the sap, aphids must puncture the phloem vessel. As aphids feed, they rob the plant of its nutrients, thereby stunting growth. Because of this invasive feeding process, aphids can spread viruses as they move from plant to plant, so it’s vital for gardeners and farmers to use effective aphid control.

Pitt says that when a colony of aphids feed on young, developing plants, cupped leaves can result. An infestation of this insect causes severe stunting in young plants. Furthermore, aphids excrete honeydew. In arid, late season conditions, this substance can result in a condition called “sticky cotton.” This causes serious problems when cotton is grown, milled and manufactured. Growers must spend more money on aphid control, while experiencing reduced cotton marketability. Ginners encounter special processing requirements, and manufacturers experience reduced efficiency in production and lower yarn quality. Farmers and gardeners should watch plants carefully, since early detection of an aphid infestation is vital to plant survival.

As a form of aphid control, gardeners and farmers are taking a tip from nature by releasing ladybugs around their planting areas. One ladybug can eat 5,000 aphids during its lifetime.

To stop aphid infestation, gardeners use organic aphid control spray, http://www.saferbrand.com/store/garden-care/5085. These sprays contain ingredients, which are easily broken down by nature. Organic insect sprays are becoming more popular because of health risks associated with traditional insecticides. Truly organic aphid control products display the Organic Materials Review Institute-listed® and USDA-National Organic Program seal, which means they are compliant for use in organic gardening.

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