Name a common pest found in ornamental plants.

Aphids are known for being one of the most common pests affecting ornamental plants. These small, soft-bodied insects typically feed on the sap of plants, which can lead to stunted growth, wilting, and overall plant decline.

They reproduce rapidly, often creating large populations that can quickly damage plants, especially when environmental conditions are favorable. Aphids also have the potential to transmit plant viruses, which poses an additional risk to the health of ornamental plants. Their presence can be identified by the sticky substance they excrete, known as honeydew, which can lead to the growth of sooty mold on plant surfaces.

While termites, Japanese beetles, and wood borers are indeed pests that can affect plants, they are more commonly associated with structural damage or specific types of plants rather than being prevalent on a wide variety of ornamental plants as aphids are.