Plant pests are a source of frustration for gardeners trying to keep their plants healthy. Aphids are one of the most common pests that attack indoor and outdoor plants. These bugs can cause damage to plants, so it’s important to take steps to remove them. We’ve gathered information to help you get rid of aphids on your plants.
1. Identify an Aphid Infestation
Regularly checking your plants for aphids or signs of their presence is important. The quicker you identify an infestation, the easier it will be to get rid of these pests. Aphids are pear-shaped bugs that grow to about 1/8". Different species can be different colors, including green, brown, yellow, and black. They are often spotted on the underside of leaves. Their feeding can also cause changes in the appearance of your plants, indicating an infestation. Leaves may curl or turn yellow. Plant growth can be stunted. Another warning sign is the presence of honeydew, a clear, sticky substance that aphids produce.
2. Physically Remove Aphids from Plants
If you’re only dealing with a few aphids, you can work to physically remove them from your plants. This will be easier if you aren’t dealing with a heavy infestation. You can spray aphids with your garden hose or shower head to remove them from your plants. Be careful spraying young or delicate plants. You can also use your hands to knock these pests off, placing them in a bucket filled with soapy water. Pruning plants can help to remove aphids too. Prune and discard leaves that are infested with aphids. If an infestation is severe, it may be best to remove the entire plant to avoid having aphids spread to your other plants.
3. Attract Beneficial Insects
Not all bugs cause problems for your plants. Some can even be beneficial to have in your garden. Attracting natural predators of aphids can help to keep their population down in your garden. Ladybugs and green lacewings are two bugs known for eating aphids as well as other garden pests. Adding plants they like to your garden can help to attract them. Ladybugs are attracted to dill and yarrow, while green lacewings are attracted to dill and sweet alyssum. Adding flowers that will provide nectar and pollen can also help to attract beneficial insects.
4. Add Aphid-Repelling Plants to Your Garden
There are some plants that aphids don’t want to be around. The fragrances of these plants serve as a defense mechanism, deterring aphids and other pests from coming near them. Mixing these plants in with your other plants can help to keep aphids away. Marigolds, chives, garlic, mint, fennel, and dill are a few plants that are said to repel aphids. Do some research about the plants you currently have and see which of these aphid-repelling plants would be good companion plants in your garden.
5. Use Plant-Based Insecticide Sprays
Plant-based insecticide sprays can help to get rid of aphids and other plant pests. Our 3-in-1 Garden Spray controls and prevents plant insects, mites, and diseases. It is most effective when used at the first sightings of insects. Spray all areas of the plant, including the underside of leaves, working to make contact with as many aphids as possible. You can apply every 5–7 days when aphids are present. Our Vegetable Garden Insect & Disease Control spray can also help to control aphids. To treat for aphids, thoroughly wet all parts of the plants, especially the underside of leaves where aphids like to hang out. You’ll want to spray aphids and other pests directly.
When aphids get established on plants, they can do a lot of damage. Taking action when you first notice these pests will make it easier to kick them out of your garden. If aphids or other pests are causing problems for your plants, we’re here to help! Check out our Maggie’s Farm garden products for a more environmentally and family-friendly solution when used as directed.