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Rosy apple aphid (Dysaphis plantaginea) can be distinguished by its greenish-rose color and the damage it causes. Rosy apple aphid injects a toxin in its saliva, causing severe leaf curling and fruit distortion. Young aphids found with adults will change from dark green to purple as they grow. Curled leaves will need to be unfurled to determine if colonies are still present. Honeydew or sooty mold on leaves or fruit is a common indication of aphid presence.

Rosy apple aphids.

(Photo: Ricardo Bessin, University of Kentucky)

Rosy apple aphid foliar symptoms.

(Photo: Ricardo Bessin, University of Kentucky)

Management:

• Apply delayed dormant oil as well as pre-bloom or petal-fall sprays when infestations exceed 5 percent of terminals or fruit clusters (Once leaves are tightly curled, adequate spray coverage and control is more difficult)

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