Aphids

Aphids are small sap sucking insects which attack a broad range of plants.  They come in different colours, like green, orange, black and grey and are mostly 2-3mm long.  They breed at an extraordinary rate and are usually seen in large clusters on fresh new growth. Sap sucking weakens the new growth and can cause distortion as plant tissue develops.  Sooty mould often develops as large colonies of aphids will produce significant amounts of honeydew.

Aphids can also transmit viruses so it is particularly important to control them on plants which are vulnerable to viral problems eg tomatoes and strawberries.

Plants Attacked
A wide range including roses, stone fruit, citrus, orchids, annuals, herbs, vegetables, flowering ornamentals, bulbs etc…

Organic Control Methods for Aphids

• Release Gracey  (green lacewing)  and the juveniles will feed on aphids – up to 60 an hour!
• Apply eco-oil ensuring good coverage over affected plants.
• Apply eco-neem and again aim for good coverage on plants.

Did you know that eco-oil has been HIPPO Enhanced to attract beneficial insects which feed on aphids (like ladybeetles, hoverflies and tiny parasitoid wasps)? Pretty clever hey!

Planting the Bed & Breakfast Seed Mix around your garden is another way to attract more of these beneficial insects for natural pest control.