Tips for Repelling Aphids

Aphids frequently carry viruses which infect a host plant as the insect feeds. Such viruses are often lethal to crops like potatoes, citrus fruits, and grains. Furthermore, the honeydew secreted by aphids as they feed creates a favorable environment for sooty molds which spread quickly to coat the leaves of a plant, depriving it of sunlight.

While an aphid infestation may start out slow, aphids reproduce quickly and a colony of these pests can easily destroy entire crops if left untreated. Fortunately, there are many ways to keep aphids in check using all natural and organic means that won’t compromise the health of your garden or your family.

1. Physical Removal

For minor infestations of aphids, it may be possible to physically remove the insects from your plants. Don a pair of gardening gloves and brush or pinch the pests from stems and leaves. If the infestation is contained to one or two stalks or branches, prune off the affected portion(s) and drop them into a bucket of soapy water to kill the aphids.

2. Water Pressure

It is possible to spray aphids off of plants with the simple application of a garden hose. While this method may harm younger, more fragile host plants, it can be quite effective at controlling small aphid populations on more robust and well-established plants.

3. Soap and Water

The basic nature of mild household detergents makes them perfect for getting rid of mild to moderate aphid infestations. Dilute a few tablespoons of dish soap in a small bucket of lukewarm water and use a sponge or spray bottle to apply the mixture to plants where aphids have taken hold. Upon contact, the soap will dissolve the waxy protective coating from aphids’ bodies, dehydrating and eventually killing the insects without harming the plant. Remember to also treat the undersides of leaves where aphid eggs and larvae may be hiding!

***It is important to note that most forms of soap will also kill beneficial insects. Use caution when applying this treatment to your plants, as killing off populations of natural predator insects such as ladybugs, hoverflies, and lacewings will leave the door wide open for new colonies of aphids to move in.***

Another quick and simple tip would be wearing a natural repellent bracelet such as the Repeller Bug Band.The Repeller Bug Band is a natural insect repellent bug bracelet that is DEET-free and safe for kids. It contains an all-natural,non-spray & deet-free repellent formula. This formula offers the best balanced proportion of 11 natural, organic essential oils and repels mosquitoes and fleas, gnats, ticks, ants and more! With this product, you get real protection without the use of dangerous sprays or powders!