Credit: Lyle Buss, UF/IFAS
According to the South Florida Pest and Disease Hotline, aphid populations are starting to build up in certain areas. Respondents on the east coast report a few aphids are showing up in pepper and squash. Along the Everglades Agricultural Area, aphids are present in celery, cabbage and other crucifers, though pressure is light to moderate.
Aphids are also present in some pepper fields in Southwest Florida. Respondents in Homestead, Florida report low to moderate numbers in susceptible crops.
High densities of green peach aphids can cause water stress, wilting and reduced growth rate of the plant. Prolonged infestations can reduce yields. Green peach aphid infests vegetables and can be transported long distances by either wind or storms.
Aphids are effective as vectors of plant viruses. The green peach aphid is considered to be the most significant vector of plant viruses throughout the world. It can transmit more than 100 viruses.