Hackberry Aphid Infestations: A Hidden Threat to Pool Maintenance
Hackberry trees, while common and often beloved in many yards, pose an often overlooked threat to pool owners and technicians: the Asian Woolly Hackberry Aphid. These insects produce honeydew, a sticky substance that can drip into swimming pools below, leading to rapid and complex challenges for pool maintenance. The demands on chlorine increase significantly, pool surfaces become fouled with residue, and filtration systems find themselves overwhelmed.
The presence of hackberry aphids can result in rapid chlorine loss, especially for pools shaded by hackberry foliage, where chlorine levels plummet faster than usual despite proper sanitzer maintenance. Additionally, pools can develop a slimy, black film caused by the combination of honeydew and mold, affecting decks, tiles, walls, and fixtures like skimmers and furniture. The resulting filter blockage means systems highlighted for longevity may require cleaning far more often.
Spread and Identification of Hackberry Aphids
First identified in Georgia in 1996, the Asian Woolly Hackberry Aphid has since spread rapidly. By 1997, it was prevalent in Florida, and reports indicate its presence in southeastern states like South Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee, and Texas, extending as far north as Illinois. Even California, especially areas like the San Joaquin Valley, have been affected.
Thanks to investigations by Aquatic Facility Training & Consultants CEO Rudy Stankowitz and University of Florida entomologist Lyle Buss, the Asian Woolly Hackberry Aphid was pinpointed as a significant source of unusual chlorine demand in pools. This confirmation corrected earlier misidentifications, establishing a direct connection between these aphids and pool maintenance challenges.
Effective Mitigation Strategies for Pool Technicians
Addressing these pool maintenance issues requires a multi-pronged approach. Enzyme-based clarifiers are effective in breaking down sticky honeydew in pool water, while shock treatments can help restore chlorine levels by burning off organic contaminants. However, educating homeowners remains crucial—clarifying that the issue lies with surrounding trees, not pool chemistry.
Landscape management, such as applying horticultural oils or systemic insecticides to affected trees, can reduce aphid populations and consequently minimize honeydew contamination. Pool professionals should also consistently assess above-pool tree conditions during inspections for unexplained sanitizer loss or sticky residues, documenting any nearby hackberry trees to set realistic expectations with clients about potential recurrences.
The Importance of Comprehensive Pool Care
While often misdiagnosed, the honeydew produced by hackberry aphids is a significant contributor to pool water issues, frequently mistaken for algae or filtration failures. Thanks to thorough research efforts, the relationship between overhead aphids and pool contamination is clear, allowing service professionals to effectively combat these issues through targeted treatments and coordinated tree care.
By following proper identification protocols and maintaining clear communication with homeowners, pool technicians can significantly reduce the impact of recurring aphid infestations, preserving water quality and minimizing maintenance challenges.
Pictured: Tom Perugini of Natural Chemistry Products with Rudy Stankowitz at a student housing swimming pool in Gainesville, Florida, showcasing issues caused by hackberry aphids.
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