MSU Extension Integrated Pest Management

Green peach aphid

Insect

Green peach aphid

Myzus persicae (Sulzer)

Hemiptera: Sternorrhyncha: Aphididae

Distribution: Widespread in most stone fruit-growing states and provinces in eastern North America.

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These smooth-looking, pear-shaped insects have long antennae and a pair of cornicles extending from the posterior end of the body. Wingless adults and nymphs are yellowish green, with three darker green lines on the abdomen (A). Winged adults are similar in color, but with a dark head and thorax.

• Crops Affected: cherries, peaches, plums

  Damage

  Attacks peach and all stone fruit crops and is the main vector of plum pox virus (reported from ON, PA, and NS). Adults and nymphs suck the sap from leaf undersides, causing curling and yellowing of foliage (B). Flowers and fruits may also be fed upon, resulting in distortion and discoloration (C).

  Management

  A dormant oil application can help suppress overwintering egg hatch. Motile forms can be treated with an insecticide as they appear in the spring.