tomato plants have small red insects on underside of leaves and some stalks - Ask Extension
Are these harmful? What is best to treat them? What are the white flecks that accompany these bugs?
Knowledgebase
tomato plants have small red insects on underside of leaves and some stalks #763141
Asked July 21, 2021, 8:28 PM EDT
Are these harmful? What is best to treat them? What are the white flecks that accompany these bugs?
Kent County Michigan
Expert Response
David, thanks for the question.
These are most likely potato aphids. They can frequently be found on tomatoes especially in hot/dry weather. Light infestation are not a major concern but they can quickly turn into a heavy infestation. A stiff spray of water can knock them off. Insecticidal soap can also be used. Keeping weeds down can reduce the occurrence of these pests. Check out the following links:
- http://www.ladybug.uconn.edu/FactSheets/aphids.php
- https://extension.umn.edu/yard-and-garden-insects/aphids#aphid-feeding-316060
I hope this helps.
