Cotton Aphid

Aphids occur in most cotton fields every year but only occasionally cause economic damage. Economic damage is most likely when environmental conditions such as dry weather are already stressing cotton growth. Aphids are usually found on the undersides of leaves or feeding in the terminals. They feed by sucking sap from phloem tissue. Heavily infested leaves will often curl downward along their edges. The accumulation of honeydew causing sticky and shiny leaf surfaces often indicates the presence of aphids (or whiteflies). Severe infestations can stunt plants and reduce yields, particularly if populations persist for a long period of time. Honeydew secretions on open bolls may result in lint staining or “sticky cotton.” This is rarely a concern in Tennessee because late-season aphid infestations are generally uncommon and cleansing rains often occur prior to harvest. For more information visit the Cotton Insects Cotton Aphid Fact Sheet (W028).