How quickly can aphids multiply?

Aphids exhibit remarkable reproduction by means of telescoping generations through which the embryos are developed within the unborn mothers. One female aphid can produce 80 to 100 live nymphs during her lifetime, beginning the production of them a few days after her birth. This induces an exponential growth whereby a single aphid will, theoretically, produce billions of progeny during one season. I have recorded populations increasing by 10,000 per cent in three weeks.

Population explosions generally occur when temperatures exceed 70°F (21°C) for several consecutive days. At this point, nymphs reach maturity in 4-5 days and start reproducing on their own. This is a compounding growth model, where colonies will grow 50 times per week. Gardeners underestimate this rapid growth until plants collapse under the infestation.

Control requires accurate timing. Introduce organisms like lady beetles before the number of aphids on a plant reaches 50. Apply insecticidal soap at intervals of 5 days, particularly in warm seasons. I prevent outbreaks by measuring degree-day accumulations that predict the peaks of reproductive activity. Early control prevents the multiplication from becoming exponential.

Multiplication patterns in pest species can change pest management practices. If local temperatures are recorded, outbreaks of pests can be forecast. The plants should be examined twice a week, during the periods of danger. The controls should be directed against insects in the first stages of nymphal development and before reproduction. This method helps save the crop, in addition to reducing the need for sprays.

Read the full article: Aphid Life Cycle: Stages and Secrets