Strange bugs in garden - Ask Extension
We have not seen these small bugs before -- at least not in the great numbers we have them this year. They are all over the plant pots and other surf...
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Strange bugs in garden #877718
Asked July 17, 2024, 9:36 PM EDT
We have not seen these small bugs before -- at least not in the great numbers we have them this year. They are all over the plant pots and other surfaces around our garden plants in one section of the garden (under a large weeping willow tree). If squished, they often "bleed" red, and they move constantly.
The picture shows then on the edge of a clay pot. We are in New Brighton. They don't seem to damage the plants, but they certainly bother the people in the garden!
Do you know what these are? And what we can do to control them?
Thanks for your help.
Ramsey County Minnesota
Expert Response
They look like willow bark aphids. Aphids are controlled by blasting them with a hose. Sounds too easy but that is what works the best.
https://extension.umn.edu/yard-and-garden-insects/aphids
https://extension.umn.edu/yard-and-garden-insects/aphids