Root Aphids: signs & treatmentsUpdated 2 years ago

Like their foliar counterparts, root aphids drink the sap of the plant, which can slow down growth dramatically. However, these types of aphids attack the roots of plants, making them harder to detect and kill. Not only that, but they create a protective barrier of fuzzy wax, like a mealybug, that shields them from many insecticides.

Signs

• White patches of webbing on the roots
• Pale yellow to white bugs with short wispy tails under a magnifying glass (see red circle below)

Treatments

• For light infections, remove any webbing and bugs with fingers
• For heavy or repeat infections, cut all roots off and reroot as a cutting
• Dip cutting in 35%-70% isopropyl alcohol and allow to dry before replanting