What is a common sign of aphid infestation on ornamental plants?

Aphid infestations on ornamental plants often manifest through various signs, with yellowing leaves being one of the most common indicators. This yellowing occurs as aphids feed on the sap of the plant, extracting vital nutrients which can lead to a decline in plant health. The loss of nutrients disrupts the normal photosynthesis process, resulting in chlorosis, which is the yellowing of leaves.

This characteristic provides an early warning sign for gardeners and pest management professionals to take action before more serious damage occurs, such as stunted growth or even plant death. In contrast, healthy green foliage, rapid growth of new branches, and unusual flowering are not typically associated with aphid infestations and may indicate otherwise favorable growing conditions rather than a pest problem.