Which of the following is a common landscape pest?

Aphids are indeed a common landscape pest known for their ability to reproduce quickly and feed on the sap of various plants. This feeding behavior can lead to significant damage, including stunted growth, wilting, and a decline in overall plant health. Aphids can also excrete honeydew, which attracts other pests and encourages the growth of sooty mold on plants, leading to further complications.

In contrast, ladybugs, bees, and butterflies are beneficial insects. Ladybugs are known for consuming aphids and other pests, helping to control their populations naturally. Bees play a critical role in pollination, which is essential for the reproduction of many plants and the production of fruits and vegetables. Butterflies, while beautiful and essential for aesthetic and ecological reasons, do not typically cause harm to plants; instead, they help pollinate them.

Thus, the identification of aphids as a common landscape pest highlights the importance of recognizing the roles different insects play in the garden ecosystem, especially when managing landscape health and pest control strategies.