Description:

• Aphid infestation is observed during the vegetative and flowering stages.
• Infestation typically occurs in warm and dry seasons.
• Aphis gossypii is most prevalent during the pre-flowering and flowering stages, especially in spring and summer.
• Myzus persicae is primarily observed in spring and autumn.

Damage Symptoms:

• Aphids are found in colonies on the underside of tender leaves, causing the leaves to curl.
• They damage plants by sucking sap, leading to wilting, yellowing, and stunted growth.
• Aphids act as vectors for plant viruses, significantly contributing to yield losses

Preventive Measures:

• Introduce predatory insects like Coccinella septempunctata and Menochilus sexmaculatus, which feed on aphids.
• Aphidius colemani parasitizes M. persicae.

Control Measures:

• Spray dimethoate at 2 ml/l or methyl demeton at 2 ml/l.
• Alternatively, spray Fenvalerate 20 EC at 375-500 ml, Phosphamidon 40 SL at 625-750 ml, or Thiometon 25 EC at 1000 ml.