Garden Pests - Aphids

After the long Christmas break, some of us may have arrived back into Galway to discover plants suffering from lack of love. The only remedy for this is to get out your watering can and give the soil a bit of attention. Next, inspect the leaves of the plants for aphids - small, soft-bodied insects, the most common of which are greenflies and blackflies. Aphids suck the sap out of the plant and transmit a black substance called honeydew, which effectively kills the plant.

For those with gardens and outdoor areas, getting rid of aphids will be easy. Planting marigold, spearmint or stinging nettle near your affected plant may control aphid infestations. Marigold in particular produces a pesticidal chemical from the roots which, while strong enough to kill small insects, will not affect tender herbs.

Additionally, larger critters may benefit your garden by feeding on aphids. The main and most common predator of aphids is the ladybird. If you have a ladybird or two among your plants, feel lucky that they're helping you in your garden. If your plants are indoors, you can spray them every few days with a very dilute solution of soap and water until the insects are dehydrated and fall off the plants. Alternatively, an organic spray called Neem II may be more effective at killing aphids and other pests. With any luck, these methods will get rid of any pests and your plants will continue to grow happily.

16 Jan 2012

by Fiona Gillespie

Below: Aphids feeding on a young tulip shoot