Aphids are tiny, white, soft-bodied insects that feed on plants and leave a sticky residue. They favour leafy vegetable plants, such as peppers, aubergines, and courgettes, but can invade any plant.
They damage leaves, and the sugary residue leads to black mould growth. They are also known to disperse diseases from one plant to another.
Aphids spread quickly and cause significant damage to vegetable plants, so it is essential to manage them immediately.
Below are two natural and safe ways you can deal with aphids that do not require spraying toxic chemicals on your vegetable plants.
Natural Insecticide Spray
This mix is very effective, it works! But it is important to follow the recipe. Also, be careful not to spray too much on so not damage the plant.
Natural Insecticide Recipe:
- 1 Litre of Water
- 2 Spoons of Oil (Neem oil, or any kitchen oil will do)
- 2 Spoons of Dish Soap
- 1 Spoon of Baking Soda
Shake well to mix, and use a Spray Bottle to apply to the leaves of the impacted plants. Be sure to spray some onto the top of the soil as well, especially for plants in containers.
Ladybirds
Fascinating to watch, and works well! Ladybirds are natural predators that are voracious aphid eaters. They are effective and help keep Aphids populations in check.
Release ladybird larvae at a rate of 10-20 per square metre. The larvae will feed for around three weeks and then develop into adult ladybirds that will keep on eating the aphids.
Having greater number of ladybirds in your garden will lead to a permanent decrease in the number of pests generally, and not just aphids.
Ladybird Food
Attract the ladybirds and keep them happy in your garden with this Ladybird Feeder Food by Wildlife World.
Aphids may be small, but their impact on vegetable plants can be substantial. Proactive prevention strategies are key to keeping these persistent pests at bay.
What you need:
Live Ladybirds
These guys definitely will eat your aphids! Pack of 100 native ladybirds larvae ready for release in your garden.
Neem Oil
Neem oil is a natural product, absolutely non-toxic. It is used to manage all pest including Aphids, and to control mildew.
Potassium Soap
Natural, effective, biodegradable, and safe. Helps to combat and prevent aphids, and to control mildew. It is also a great cleaner for your garden tools and pots.
Spray Bottle
Even works upside down! Defenders All Ways Home and Garden 1L Sprayer Bottle, for garden use - cleaning, fertilisers, and pesticides
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