There are both flying and wingless species of aphids, making them even more of a nuisance to control. Some will grow wings once their current food source is degraded and fly onto greener pastures. [2] X Research source Aphids are a common pest in all parts of the globe, and have been known to infest almost any type of crop, tree, shrub, or flowering plant.
While aphids prefer to make a meal of the succulent leaves of fruits and vegetables, they’ll happily feed on whatever they find growing. Even a small population of aphids can present a major problem for farmers and gardeners.
Along with the more obvious symptoms of disease, you may be able to spot tiny bite marks along the edges or veins of the leaves. Aphids tend to flourish during the warmer summer months.
Honeydew can also take on a dark brown or black coloration as mold and fungi begin to grow on it. [6] X Research source Hosing off your affected plants periodically will help wash away not only aphids themselves, but the residue they leave behind.
Galls may be accompanied by severe discoloration, making them look like dark raised bumps or mold spots. If left untreated, galls may leave the plant vulnerable to more serious diseases.
Always wear gloves when removing aphids by hand to protect your skin from potential irritants. [9] X Research source While aphids usually migrate and feed in colonies, they can also appear 1 or 2 at a time.
Avoid using a pressure setting high enough to damage the plant itself and refrain from overwatering. Regular spraying is most effective for combating small-moderate infestations on hearty, established plants. [11] X Research source Allow the leaves to dry completely between waterings. Wet foliage increases the risk of diseases like blight and rust in plants that are sensitive to moisture. [12] X Research source
After cutting back the affected plant, douse it thoroughly with water or a homemade aphid repellent solution, such as those enumerated here. Selective pruning works best when aphids are confined to one specific section of the plant.
To make your solution even more effective, add a generous pinch of cayenne pepper. [15] X Research source Keep your spray bottle in a garage or shed near your garden so you’ll always have it when you need it. This solution will kill beneficial insects, too, so try to be selective when spraying plants. Mixing up a fresh batch for each application will keep your spray nozzle from clogging.
Not only are essential oils complete safe, they’ll also pull double duty as a pleasantly fragrant insect repellent. Always dilute your oil mixtures, as excessive oil left on leaves can burn your plant. Designate one spray bottle for this use, as the oil will permeate the bottle.
Neem oil can be found at any major gardening center. It’s nontoxic and breaks down rapidly once it’s exposed to air, so it won’t harm you or your plants. [18] X Research source As an added bonus, neem oil is also useful against a host of other common pests, including mealy bugs, beetles, and caterpillars. That said, it will kill beneficial insects as well as pests, so try to be selective when you spray.
Insecticidal soaps can be toxic to certain types of plants, so be sure to read the recommended use information on the packaging carefully before applying them in your garden. [20] X Research source
Keep in mind that chemical insecticides can be damaging to plants and beneficial predator species. Always follow the instructions provided on the product label, and never use more than directed. The National Sustainable Agriculture Information Service (ATTRA) has compiled a database of low-risk pesticides that may benefit farmers and gardeners, including many botanical options. [22] X Research source
You can typically purchase the eggs, larvae, and even live specimens of helpful garden predators at major garden supply stores. Ladybugs and lacewings and can become a nuisance in their own right. When pitting insect against insect, bring in a modest number and keep a close eye on them so you’re not just trading one pest for another.
Think twice before pulling out every last weed you find. Leaving a few here and there will help promote diversity in your growing space, and varieties like dandelion and bugleweed are actually attractive to some species of ladybugs. [25] X Research source Provide a source of water, such as an active sprinkler system, small fountain, or bird feeder, to ensure that the ladybugs have all their needs met. Place a small rock in the center, so insects have a way to climb out and avoid accidental drowning.
If you’re looking for a quicker solution, you can also cut up fresh alliums and scatter them over the perimeter of your garden rather than taking the time to cultivate them.
Ants have also been known to protect and herd aphids in order to use their natural secretions as a food source. [28] X Research source
