Photinia: Aphids

Biology

Aphids on photinia are variously colored, from yellowish or greenish to black. They are soft-bodied insects less than 1/8″ long. Aphids often feed in large groups and typically are found on new growth, including both leaves and shoots. Heavy infestations can cause yellowing or wilting of foliage. New growth may be stunted. Aphids often produce honeydew, a sweet, sticky material that may attract ants or become covered with a growth of dark sooty mold.

Management Options

Use Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for successful plant problem management.

Non-chemical Management

Select non-chemical management options as your first choice!

• Hand-wipe or prune to control small, localized infestations (when practical).
• Wash aphids from foliage with a strong stream of water.
• Encourage natural enemies of aphids including ladybird beetles, lacewings, syrphid fly larvae, and parasitic wasps. Avoid use of broad-spectrum insecticides which kill these beneficial insects.
• Control honeydew-feeding ants, which may protect aphid colonies from predators.
• Provide proper nutrition. High levels of nitrogen in the foliage encourage aphid reproduction. Switch to a slow-release or low-nitrogen fertilizer.

Chemical Management

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

• Apply when aphids or damage is first noticed.
• Apply oils in delayed dormant period to kill overwintering eggs.
• Homeowners should not make foliar applications to trees over 10 ft tall.
• Consult a commercial pesticide applicator for treatment of trees and shrubs over 10 ft. tall.

Approved Pesticides

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

• All Seasons Horticultural and Dormant Spray Oil Concentrate [Organic]
  Active ingredient: mineral oil/pet distillate [EPA registration number: 4-80]
• Safer Brand BioNEEM Multi-Purpose Insecticide and Repellent Concentrate [Organic]
  Active ingredient: azadirachtin [EPA registration number: 70051-6-42697]
• Hi-Yield Dormant Spray
  Active ingredient: oil/pet distillate [EPA registration number: 7401-428]
• Safer Brand Garden Defense Multi-Purpose Spray Concentrate [Organic]
  Active ingredient: clarified hydrophobic extract of neem oil [EPA registration number: 70051-2-42697]
• Safer Brand Insect Killing Soap Concentrate II [Organic]
  Active ingredient: potassium salts of fatty acid [EPA registration number: 42697-60]
• This list may not include all products registered for this use.

Additional Image