(Image credit: Combine Harvester/Alamy Stock Photo)
Treating Aphids in Your Vertical Garden
A healthy vertical garden is a sight to behold. But keeping your garden healthy can sometimes be a challenge, especially when it comes to pests.
Aphids are one of the most common pests that attack plants, and they can wreak havoc on your vertical garden if left unchecked. But don't worry—plenty of ways to prevent aphids from taking over your plants.
In this blog post, we'll explore some of the most effective methods for keeping aphids at bay.
Aphid Control Methods
There are a number of different methods you can use to prevent aphids from infesting your plants. Some methods are more effective than others, and the best method for you will likely depend on the severity of the infestation. Let's take a look at some of the most common methods for controlling aphids.
Natural Pest Controls
If you have a serious aphid problem, you may need to resort to spray controls. Products like neem oil and insecticidal soap can effectively kill aphids and other pests.
There are also a number of natural methods you can use to control aphids. One popular method is to release ladybugs into your garden—lacewings and ladybugs are natural predators of aphids and will help keep the population under control. In Australia you can find them at Bugs for Bugs.
You can also try spraying your plants with a mixture of water and dish soap—the soap will break down the aphids' protective coating, leaving them vulnerable to predators or dehydration. Add a couple of drops of tea tree or peppermint oil to strengthen this home-made treatment. Just be mindful to not make it too strong and to avoid using it when the sun is out strong.
Whichever method you choose, be sure to spray again after 7 days to break the new cycle of pests and larvae, check your plants regularly for signs of infestation so you can catch the problem early and prevent it from spreading.
This is how an Aphid infestation may look:
(Image credit: BugsforBugs)
The Bottom Line
Aphids can be a serious problem for vertical gardens, but there are plenty of ways to prevent them from taking over your plants. Products like neem oil and insecticidal soap can be effective.
Natural controls like releasing lacewings and ladybugs or spraying a home-made treatment on plant leaves are less likely to harm your plants and can be just as effective at preventing aphid infestations.
Regularly checking your plants for signs of an infestation is the best way to prevent an infestation from taking hold in the first place. Keeping your vertical garden happy and healthy for years to come!