Question
Hi,

I have what looks like aphids on my African Violet. They are tiny little black granule-looking things and are spread around on the leaves. If these are aphids, what can I do about it; and if it's not aphids, what do you think it is. Otherwise, my violet is doing great! It's just about to bloom for the 3rd time! Hope to hear from you soon. Thanks.
Lindy

Answer
Hello Lindy,

Aphids are small 1/8th inch long.  This insect is one of the major carriers of virus diseases.

Aphids may be green, yellow, brown, red or black depending on the species involved.  Some are spotted, others have stripes.

Their bodies are pear-shaped and they have six legs and antennae.  They are wingless for the most part.

You may see small white specks on the foliage.  These are not live insects but are the old cast off skins of the nymphs as the progress onto the next stage.

Here are the symptoms of Aphids:

1.  Yellowing and curling of leaves
2.  Wilt and distortion
3.  Stunting of new growth

These symptoms may not appear immediately if you have only one plant with the insects.

Aphids excrete honeydew which may attract ants.  A fungus, black sooty mold may grow on the honeydew.

Natural control:  Catch insects with your fingers or with tweezers if you have only a few.

Biological control:  Lady bugs or lace wings can do an excellent job of cleaning up the infestation.

Chemical control:  Aphids seldom kill a plant but they should be controlled.  These insects prefer the undersides of leaves so this is where you should find them and eliminate them.

Since it is easy to use insecticidal soap such as Safer's a chemical control is not advised.  For a large infestation such as in a greenhouse, I recommend Malathion, Diazinon and pyrethrins.

Aphids are not a major threat to African violets by care must be given when these insects are observed in your collection.

If what is described above does not fit the insects you have, please ask again with description of insect and/or damage caused to the plant.  Then we can try to diagnose the problem insect.

Thanks.

Nancy