Controlling Cottony Aphids and Plant Bugs on Pentas with Systemic Insecticide

Controlling Cottony Aphids and Plant Bugs on Pentas with Systemic Insecticide

Pentas plants have small white bugs, blackened leaves, and white spider-like bugs. One plant heavily affected.

Bugs

Bug #2

Identification

• Photo 2: Cottony aphid (white, waxy coating).
• Photo 1: Plant bug (true bug, related to stink bugs).
• Black leaves = sooty mold on honeydew.

Control: Acephate (Orthene)

Systemic insecticide absorbed by leaves. Kills sucking insects (aphids) and chewing insects (plant bugs) when they feed.

• Spray foliage thoroughly per label.
• Check local nursery for availability.
• Follow all safety precautions (bee toxicity, re-entry interval).

Alternative: Neem Oil + Horticultural Oil

Organic option: mix neem + lightweight horticultural oil, spray weekly ×3. Less toxic to beneficials.

Treat all nearby pentas preventatively.