Aphids are tiny insects about a 1/16 to 1/8 inches long, usually light green, red or black. They come in the spring and damage tender new growth.

A hard spray of water from the hose will help remove aphid infestations. Aphids reproduce quickly. Continue to spray your plants every couple days for a couple weeks. Aphids have a mutually beneficial relationship with ants, so ants need to be controlled if aphids are present.

Ladybugs are a natural predator of aphids so they can be used to control aphids. If ladybugs are purchased, water the area well and release the ladybugs around sunset to discourage them from leaving