Aphids!

Looking at the calendar, I see it is May already. It seems like it is too soon for garden insect pests because it has been so cold and wet. Over the weekend, I found out differently! I was walking past the three rose bushes by my front door and I noticed aphids all over them! I quickly grabbed my camera to snap this picture. Then I grabbed my garden hose. (Aphids can be dislodged by a strong stream of water). It appears my roses are safe – at least for now!

This reinforces the fact that regular monitoring of insect pests is very important to protect prized garden and landscape plants from damage. Let the diligent monitoring begin!