Aphid

Tiny green, gray, or black soft-bodied insects that cluster on new growth and the undersides of leaves. They suck plant sap, causing yellow, curled, distorted leaves and stunted growth. Ants often farm and protect them.

• Clusters of tiny insects on new stems and under leaves.
• Curled, yellowing, distorted new leaves.
• Sticky honeydew on leaves and ants marching up the stems.

• Blast them off with a strong stream of water in the morning.
• Encourage ladybugs and lacewings — skip broad-spectrum sprays.
• Go easy on nitrogen fertilizer, which fuels aphid outbreaks.