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Identifying aphids on Sweet Gum
Soft-bodied, pear-shaped insects in green, black, yellow, or brown. Often clustered on new growth and undersides of leaves.
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Life cycle
Reproduce rapidly without mating in spring/summer. One female can produce 80+ offspring per week. Multiple generations per year.
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Damage to Sweet Gum
Suck sap from soft tissue, causing distorted growth, sticky honeydew, and sooty mould. Can transmit viruses.
healing
How to treat aphids on Sweet Gum
Spray with strong water jet to dislodge. Apply insecticidal soap or neem oil. Introduce ladybirds.
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Preventing aphids on Sweet Gum
Encourage natural predators. Avoid excess nitrogen. Inspect new plants.