Which common pest is known to affect ornamental plants?

Aphids are well-known pests that significantly impact ornamental plants. These small, sap-sucking insects can colonize various species of ornamental plants, causing damage by feeding on plant sap. This feeding can lead to stunted growth, wilting, and distortion of leaves, which can detract from the aesthetic value of the plants.

Aphids also produce a sticky substance called honeydew that fosters the growth of sooty mold, further impairing the plants' appearance and photosynthetic ability. Additionally, aphids can transmit plant viruses that can have severe consequences for the health of the plant. Their rapid reproduction rates enable them to infest plants quickly, making them a common and persistent threat in garden and landscaping scenarios.

While beetles, caterpillars, and spider mites can also affect ornamental plants, aphids are particularly prevalent and notorious for their impact on ornamental horticulture. Their ability to thrive in various environments and their specific feeding behaviors make them one of the foremost pests in the ornamental plant category.