Aphids and Potato Chits!

[the_snail]

Ok here goes. This is the first time this has ever happened to me. I have a infestation of aphids on my potato chits. Will this cause them any harm? I am worried that the aphids may pass on a virus to the tubers. Aphids are a pain for transmiting viruses. Correction aphids are a pain full stop! Need I be concerened. Like I said this has never happened to me before. Well this is the best thing about gardening nothing goes to plan  ::)

The_Snail

[the_snail]

[LesH]

Hi Snail   If you are planting the potatoes now do not worry, just get them in the ground, the aphids will not survive being buried. If you are not planting for a few weeks give the tubers a spray.

[philcooper]

Snail,

Aphids do spread disease (so all the good things that the seed raiser did to provide you with certified seed, may be undone) also, if the infestation is bad, they will drain the plant meaning that it is weaker when planted.

I usually have the same problem and a spray of liquid soap quickly solves the problem.

Phil

[Robert_Brenchley]

I don't think there are any aphids which can live both above and below ground, so planting will cure it. Their presence may be a sign that the spuds are not as strong as a normal plant, and the sooner they're growing normally and gathering strength, the better.

[philcooper]

I don't think there are any aphids which can live both above and below ground, so planting will cure it. Their presence may be a sign that the spuds are not as strong as a normal plant, and the sooner they're growing normally and gathering strength, the better.

As I said, Robert, the curing may be too late if the aphids have introduced disease, so spray now don't wait until you plant them.

Their presence is due to the fact that potato shoots are a very tasty meal at a time of year when not  much else is around!!

Phil