aphids on Anthurium
Quick answer
If your Anthurium has aphids, the most likely cause is: Aphids (Aphis gossypii and Myzus persicae) colonize Anthurium andraeanum to feed on phloem sap, targeting new growth, flower spathes, and tender leaf undersides. These soft-bodied insects reproduce parthenogenetically, producing live young every 3-5 days, allowing populations to explode from 10 to 1000+ individuals within 3 weeks. Heavy infestations cause leaf curling, stunted growth, and honeydew secretion that promotes sooty mold growth on foliage.
Start here:
- 1. Quarantine infested plant immediately to prevent spread to collection
- 2. Manual removal: Wipe aphids from leaves with damp cloth or cotton swab dipped in 70% isopropyl alcohol
Why Anthurium gets aphids
Anthurium spp.
Aphids (Aphis gossypii and Myzus persicae) colonize Anthurium andraeanum to feed on phloem sap, targeting new growth, flower spathes, and tender leaf undersides. These soft-bodied insects reproduce parthenogenetically, producing live young every 3-5 days, allowing populations to explode from 10 to 1000+ individuals within 3 weeks. Heavy infestations cause leaf curling, stunted growth, and honeydew secretion that promotes sooty mold growth on foliage.
How to reverse aphids on Anthurium
- 1
Quarantine infested plant immediately to prevent spread to collection
- 2
Manual removal: Wipe aphids from leaves with damp cloth or cotton swab dipped in 70% isopropyl alcohol
- 3
Insecticidal soap treatment: Apply 2% solution (1 tsp castile soap per quart water) every 5-7 days for 3 applications, targeting leaf undersides
- 4
Neem oil alternative: Mix 1% neem oil (2 tsp per quart water) with 0.5% liquid soap as emulsifier; apply evening to avoid leaf burn
- 5
Systemic control (severe cases): Apply imidacloprid granules to soil per label instructions for 3-4 week residual protection
Keep aphids off this Anthurium
Inspect new plants thoroughly before introducing to collection—check leaf undersides and new growth. Maintain strong airflow around plants. Avoid over-fertilizing with nitrogen which creates soft, aphid-attractive growth.