Kaaliväri

Kaaliväri, also known as cabbage aphid, is a common pest found in gardens and agricultural settings. Its scientific name is Brevicoryne brassicae. This small insect, typically green or grayish-green in color, is a type of aphid that feeds on plants in the Brassica family, which includes cabbage, broccoli, kale, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts.

These aphids are often found in clusters on the undersides of leaves, stems, and flower heads of their host plants. They reproduce rapidly, especially in warm weather, and can quickly infest a plant. Their feeding causes damage by sucking sap from the plant, which can lead to stunted growth, yellowing of leaves, and reduced crop yield. In severe infestations, the plant may become covered in honeydew, a sticky excretion from the aphids, which can then be colonized by sooty mold.

Kaaliväri can also transmit plant viruses, further damaging the host. Natural predators such as ladybugs, lacewings, and hoverfly larvae are important in controlling kaaliväri populations. Various methods, including insecticidal soaps, horticultural oils, and cultural practices like crop rotation and removing infested plant debris, are used to manage infestations in gardens and farms.