TechNotes Tips - Aphids Archive

Honeydew is apparent on lindens in many parts of the country. The honeydew is from aphids. Most people notice the yellowing of the leaves first, then the sticky honeydew, before they see the aphids (if they notice the aphids at all). Controls are not necessary as the aphids don't do enough damage to the trees under most conditions. However, it might be wise not to park or sit under trees with large amounts of dripping honeydew!

Several dozen species of aphids can be found on shade trees and ornamentals throughout the U.S. Aphids feed by sucking the sap from twigs and stems. On young leaves, aphids can cause what is known as leaf curl. Leaf curl is especially common on ash, honeysuckle and plum. If aphid infestations are heavy, a reduction in plant growth occurs.

Aphids excrete large amounts of a substance known as honeydew. If the amount of honeydew is excessive, it can drip and turn leaves a grayish color. Honeydew attracts ants. If large numbers of ants are crawling on a tree, this is a good indicator that aphids are present. Summer aphids are entirely female. Females give live birth to 1 to 20 aphids a day.