Rose aphids are small, soft, pinkish or green insects found on the succulent new growth, including buds and stems. White cast skins can also be present. Heavy aphid feeding can reduce the quantity and quality of the flowers produced.

Management Options

Non-Chemical Management

Avoid use of broad-spectrum insecticides which kill natural predators and parasites of aphids (including ladybird beetles and larvae, green lacewings and larvae, and parasitic wasps).
Wash aphids from plants with a strong stream of water.
Avoid overfertilization, as high nitrogen levels in the plant encourage aphid reproduction. Switch to a slow-release or low-nitrogen formula.

Select non-chemical management options as your first choice!

Chemical Management

IMPORTANT: Visit Home and Garden Fact Sheets for more information on using pesticides

Apply oils in delayed dormant period to kill overwintering eggs. Apply one of the following when adult aphids are first observed. Thorough coverage of the foliage is important, including upper and lower leaf surfaces.

Listed below are examples of pesticides that are legal in Washington. Always read and follow all label directions.

Bayer Advanced Power Force Multi-Insect Killer R-T-S
Active ingredient: cyfluthrin | EPA reg no: 72155-39
Bonide Systemic Insect Control
Active ingredient: acephate | EPA reg no: 239-2461-4
Hi-Yield Dormant Spray
Active ingredient: oil/pet distillate | EPA reg no: 7401-428
Safer Brand BioNEEM Multi-Purpose Insecticide & Repellent Conc [Organic]
Active ingredient: azadirachtin | EPA reg no: 70051-6-42697
Safer Brand Garden Defense Multi-Purpose Spray Conc [Organic]
Active ingredient: clarified hydrophobic extract of neem oil | EPA reg no: 70051-2-42697
Safer Brand Insect Killing Soap Conc II [Organic]
Active ingredient: potassium laurate | EPA reg no: 42697-60
This list may not include all products registered for this use.

Images

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Caption: Aphid colony Photo by: R.S. Byther

WSU Extension

Hortsense