Lupins: Small White Pests

[Cosmo and Dibs]

I have around 10 young lupin plants in pots in my greenhouse growing ready for planting out in the autumn.

I have noticed that each one has a bunch of small, white 'insects' on the stems. They dont seem to be eating the plant or causing much damage.

What are they, and how can I remove them? I've tried washing them off under a tap to no avail.

Thanks.

[rustylady]

Picture would be helpful.

[Jeanied]

It sounds like an aphis attack, C&D - and if the clusters are big you need to deal with them. Have you tried squirting with soapy water / squishing? Or you could introduce a friendly ladybird to the stem.

[Cosmo and Dibs]

Thanks for the replies.

It definitely looks like aphids from the pictures I've seen online. I'll get squishing tomorrow.