I planted a couple of different varieties of milkweed plants that have been doing well this summer. Last week I noticed what I thought were yellow flower buds on a couple of plants. When I got closer I noticed that the stems were covered with tiny yellow bugs. I also noticed that a few leaves had white powdery stuff on them. I've never planted milkweed before. Is anybody familiar with what has happened to my plants?
infested milkweed
Not sure about the bugs but the white stuff sounds like powdery mildew. I think the best thing to do for it would be a baking soda and water spray. I am sure other more experienced butterfly gardeners will have more insight.
the bugs are just a new crop of young somethings, probably, and will look familiar after they are grown as well as lose their coloration.
probably aphids which love milkweed
Yellow bugs sound like aphids that always show up this time of year in my area. You do want to do something about them before they get out of control.
There are several things you can do:
1. You can give them a good blast with a hose. This does not work as well as other methods but it will decrease the number of them if you are pressed for time.
2. You can spray them with soap water which is very effective
3. The most effective method I have found is squishing them by hand. I use baby wipes to wipe/squish, but paper towels or tissues work just as well.
I usually squish...careful to see if you have ladybugs or larvae there first, and move them. They eat aphids so you want to protect them.
Here is a good id link for insects on MW. http://www.texasento.net/MWpix.htm
This message was edited Sep 11, 2010 8:47 AM