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Rose aphid

Macrosiphum rosae

14 host plants

Last updated

Data Coverage 1 of 6 dimensions
Host Plants
GDD Threshold
Peak Activity
Damage Severity
Monitoring
Regional Notes

Green, pink, or red-brown aphids about 1/8 inch long cluster on new rose growth, buds, and stems throughout the Puget Sound region, especially June and July. Soft-bodied insects with long antennae contort flowers and leaves through their feeding; sticky honeydew contaminates blooms. Heavy infestations reduce flower quantity and quality.

Monitor weekly during peak periods. Strong water spray dislodges aphids; repeat every few days. Early-season horticultural oil or insecticidal soap targets colonizing aphids. Conserve ladybugs and parasitic wasps which provide excellent natural control by mid-summer.

Quick Reference

Host Plants
14

Cultural Controls

  • biological control Many parasites and predators attack aphid.
  • Monitor the proportion of aphid mummies to unparasitized adults and the number of predators such as lady beetles.
  • If the biocontrol agents appear to be gaining control, avoid sprays which would disrupt this system.
  • Most products available for aphid control are highly disruptive of natural enemies.
  • Management-cultural control Aphid populations tend to be higher in plants that are fertilized liberally with nitrogen.
  • Prune out suckers...

Host Plants (14)