Your plants are growing poorly lately, and you’re not sure what the problem is. Then you happen to inspect them closer, and… aphids!
Aphids love plants that already have an issue growing, such as poor soil conditions or lack of water. They multiply quickly and can cause detrimental harm to your plants if left unchecked.
If you’re wondering how to control aphids, keep reading for some quick and easy tips.
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How Do You Spot Aphids?
If you suspect aphids are damaging your plants but you’re not sure, there are a couple of ways to figure out if the little pests are truly aphids.
While most aphids are a green color, they can also be yellow, brown, red, or black. They’re small, soft-bodied insects that are often difficult to spot.
The main way to tell if you have aphids is to inspect your plants.
Do they have curled leaves? Are they yellowing? Are some of the shoots dead?
These are signs aphids might be present. If you find honeydew on your plants, which is a sugary substance that aphids leave behind after eating, this is a more clear sign you have an aphid problem.
Methods of Aphid Control
So you know you have an aphid problem, but how do you get rid of them? Luckily, there are some simple ways to get your plants back to being aphid-free.
Spray with Water
Aphids are so small that a steady stream of water will knock them right off of plants (and they’re not likely to crawl back up the same one!).
Use a hose to spray your plants with water, making sure to get the tops and bottoms of the leaves.
Try Horticultural Oil
If you’re looking for an organic aphid control option, horticultural oil is a great choice.
Apply the horticultural oil to the leaves of the plants being infested, and the oil will get rid of the aphids without harming the plants. Follow the instructions on the oil to ensure proper use.
Avoid using horticultural oil in the hot summer months.
Opt for Insecticides
There are lots of insecticide options out there designed to kill plant pests, such as Venerate.
Look for an insecticide that targets aphids and follow the instructions, applying it to the plant thoroughly (and possibly more than once). If you use insecticides, know that they can kill beneficial insects too, not only the aphids.
Use Your Fingers
If you have a small infestation, using your fingers to get rid of the aphids is a quick and easy option.
Crush the soft-bodied insects with your fingers, making sure to get the bottom of the leaves too. Inspect your plants every few days to make sure the problem hasn’t grown.
Control Aphids with Ease
Now that you know how to control aphids, your plants should be on their way to a green, healthy glow again. Whether you’re looking for natural aphid control or heartier pesticides, there’s an option that’s perfect for each plant.
Looking for more gardening tips? Explore our site.
Whether you’re looking for natural aphid control or heartier pesticides, there’s an option that’s perfect for each plant.
Looking for more gardening tips? Explore our site.
