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Aphids

Aphids

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Aphids, also known as greenflies and blackflies, are soft-bodied insects that can be found on cannabis plants worldwide. They come in various colors, including white, green, yellow, black, brown, and red, depending on their life stage and habitat. Adult aphids are bigger and rounder, while young aphids (nymphs) are smaller and thinner. They tend to form colonies on the undersides of stems and leaves.

Cause of Issue
◉ Aphids infest cannabis plants when winged "colonizer" aphids land on the plant and lay eggs. ◉ Winged aphids, also known as blackflies or greenflies, can start a new infestation by laying eggs. ◉ Rapid reproduction leads to a significant increase in aphid populations within a few weeks.
Symptoms
◉ Yellowing leaves and wilting due to excessive stress and damage caused by aphids feeding on plant sap. ◉ Aphids pierce cannabis leaves with their mouthparts and primarily form colonies on the undersides of stems and leaves. ◉ Production of a sweet substance called "honeydew" that attracts a fungus called sooty mold. ◉ Sooty mold can accumulate on leaves and branches, turning them black and hindering normal plant processes. ◉ Infested buds may become unsafe to smoke. ◉ Honeydew can also attract ants and other insects.
Corrective Actions
◉ Regularly check for signs of aphids to catch an infestation early. ◉ Remove or spray off as many aphids as possible. Consider moving the plants outside and using a power sprayer to dislodge the bugs. Remove heavily infected leaves and buds. ◉ Use insecticidal soaps or fatty acid salts to weaken the outer shell of aphids. Ensure thorough coverage and follow-up applications if necessary. ◉ Neem Oil can be effective against aphids but should not come into contact with buds due to its unpleasant taste/smell. Use with caution as it may be harmful to humans. ◉ Spinosad products, safe and organic, can be sprayed directly on aphids to kill them. They are less toxic to beneficial insects and spiders. ◉ Introduce beneficial insects like lady beetles, ladybugs, and lacewings, which prey on aphids. However, their impact may not be sufficient if the infestation is already established. ◉ Control ants if present since they may tend to aphids and worsen the aphid problem.
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