2 (1 = rare 5 = annual)

4 (1 = very little damage 5 = plants killed)

Honeysuckle aphid became a problem in Illinois in the early 80's in the Chicago area. It has since spread throughout Illinois. It feeds on most honeysuckles. However, Lonicera tatarica 'Arnold Red" and small shrub varieties are resistant to the insects feeding and do not show damage.

Shrub

• Tatarian Honeysuckle (Lonicera tatarica)

The toxins released during feeding cause growth changes in the honeysuckle. Leaves fold over and protect the aphid from predators. The folded leaves also makes it more difficult to control these insects. In addition there is a shortening of branch tips and growth of dormant buds causing a witches-broom appearance. Eventually the affected tissue dies due to frost injury.

About 90% of the aphid eggs are laid on the damaged tissue. As with most other aphids, only live females are born to the adult female till cooling fall temperatures and shortening days causes sexual males and females to be born. The sexual adults mate and the female then lays the over wintering eggs.

Removing the dead witches-broom before budbreak slightly delays severe infestation the following spring. Treat at the first sign of damage Repeat in four weeks. Control the insectonly during new growth to help reduce the risk of insect becoming resistant to insecticide.

Home, Yard & Garden Pest Guide
The Home, Yard & Garden Pest Guide (C1391) provides is written for homeowners and other residents and provides nonchemical and current chemical recommendations for controlling pests associated with trees, shrubs, turf, flowers, groundcovers, vegetables, fruit, and houses. In addition, you'll find detailed information about integrated pest management, pesticide safety, and pesticide application and calibration techniques. This publication may be purchased at your local University of Illinois Extension Unit office, or by calling 800-345-6087, or by placing an order online (search for "C1391").
Visit site >>

Illinois Commercial Landscape and Turfgrass Pest Management Handbook
The Illinois Commercial Landscape and Turfgrass Pest Management Handbook (ICLT) is written for professional applicators and provides nonchemical and current chemical recommendations as well as application timing information for all major pests of turf, woody ornamentals and herbaceous ornamentals. This publication may be purchased at your local University of Illinois Extension Unit office, or by calling 800-345-6087, or by placing an order online (search for "ICLT").
Visit site >>

U of IL - Distance Diagnosis through Digital Imaging
A free plant, weed, insect and disease identification service available through your local University of Illinois Extension office. Center Educators or State Specialists review & respond to information and digital images submitted by local Extension office personnel. Some samples may require further examination or culture work (nominal fee involved) at the U of IL Plant Clinic.
Visit site >>

U of IL - Plant Clinic
Services include plant and insect identification, diagnosis of disease, insect, weed and chemical injury (chemical injury on field crops only), nematode assays, and help with nutrient related problems, as well as recommendations involving these diagnoses. Microscopic examinations, laboratory culturing, virus assays, and nematode assays are some of the techniques used in the clinic.
Visit site >>