The green peach aphid is a medium-sized aphid that grows to 1.2 mm to 2.5 mm. They are located in colonies, especially on the upper, youngest leaves and in the flowers. The aphid occurs as both winged and wingless insects, is oval in shape, and varies in color from a shade of gray to dark green. The wingless variant is bright green, but can also be light green, gray-green or even pink.

The lower abdomen of the winged variant is characterized by a clearly visible dark spot. The upper body is also a bit darker. The siphuncles have a dark tip and normal length. The tail of the green peach aphid is small. Distinct nodules can also be seen on the forehead. It also has a number of transverse bands across its body.

The green peach aphid likes to move in colonies. When these colonies become too large, the offspring is born with wings. This makes it easier for them to transfer to other plants. 

To detect green peach aphids promptly, signaling products such as sticky traps and sheets can be used. Are you unsure about the type of aphid? Then read our article about aphid control on plants.

Green peach aphids can reproduce sexually and asexually. During her lifespan, a female produces between 50 and 60 offspring. In asexual reproduction, the nymphs start to feed on plant sap straight after birth. During their development phase, which lasts about 10 to 12 days, the green peach aphid goes through four stages of growth, shedding a white skin into the crop at each transition. When the aphid reproduces sexually by laying eggs, the eggs can hibernate to hatch in the following spring.

When eating the leaves, the green peach aphid simultaneously deposits toxins into the plant. This causes an allergic reaction in the plant, making the plant leaves droop and begin to discolor. In severe cases, whole leaves can even die.

This aphid can also transmit various viruses. Depending on the virus and the crop, this can lead to problems such as severe leaf curl, deformities, leaf size reduction and necrosis. 

Finally, the green peach aphid secretes honeydew onto the plant. Honeydew contains high sugar levels, making it a good breeding ground for fungi, including sooty dew. Sooty dew coats the plant and thus prevents the photosynthesis process. Because the plant is then unable to perform this process, it will suffer from limited growth and fruiting.

Green peach aphid control can be achieved by biological and chemical methods. Options for natural enemies are: the parasitic wasp, ladybugs, gall midges and lacewings.

Effective chemical plant protection products include broad action insecticides such as Batavia and Closer. Another alternative is Requiem Prime, which can be used in both vegetable- and floriculture. For an overview of all of the approved products against green peach aphids for your crop, you can refer to the Spraying Guide.

In order to reduce or prevent green peach aphid damage in crops, it is also recommended to take additional hygiene measures. You can also choose to fit insect netting in the air vents.

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