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Identifying aphids on Tomato
Clusters of small green or black insects on new growth, the undersides of leaves, and around flower trusses, often with sticky honeydew nearby.
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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 Tomato
Aphids sap-suck on tender new growth and flower trusses, causing distorted leaves and potentially reducing fruit set if flower clusters are heavily infested.
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How to treat aphids on Tomato
Spray forcefully with water to dislodge aphids, or apply insecticidal soap or neem oil for persistent infestations. Encourage ladybirds, which are effective natural predators.
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Preventing aphids on Tomato
Inspect new growth and flower trusses regularly, and avoid excess nitrogen fertiliser, which promotes the soft growth aphids prefer.