- Aphids are small insects measuring 1/16 inch to 1/4 inch. They occur in many different colors (commonly bright green) and can be winged or wingless. Aphids have soft pear-shaped bodies and are usually found in mass numbers. Because aphids reproduce quickly, they can infest a wave petunia plant rapidly.
- An infestation of aphids on wave petunias has several signs. A large population of these tiny insects will be found on the new succulent growth or around the flower buds. Honeydew, which is a sticky substance that aphids secrete, will be present all over the plant. Honeydew attracts ants and sooty mold, which can disfigure the plant. A severe infestation will result in the wave petunia having curled and distorted growth due to a virus deposited through the aphid's salvia into the petunia.
- The good news is that aphids have many naturally occurring enemies, such as parasitic wasps, fire ants, ladybugs and green lacewings. These enemies can keep aphid populations to a minimum. If an infestation does occur, treatment with an insecticidal soap or horticultural oil is effective in killing these pests.
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