Gray Bugs On Irises – Aphids

Gray bugs

Q: My friend’s irises have lots of little gray bugs on the leaves. What could they be? 

A: I have no doubt that your friend’s irises are afflicted with aphids. These sap sucking insects are common on iris and other plants. The usual initial control is a strong blast of water from your garden hose. Examine the leaves closely and you may see lots of tan “sesame seeds.” These are the skins of aphids that have been attacked by parasitic wasps. That’s why I don’t recommend insecticides in most cases. More details at bit.ly/GAirisa.

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