Gardeners around the world are waging a constant war with a tiny but dangerous enemy – aphids. These tiny insects can turn a blooming garden into a withering thicket in a matter of days. But how can you win this battle without resorting to heavy artillery of chemicals?
Is there a universal and safe remedy for aphids that will protect plants and will not harm the environment? It is necessary to understand the arsenal of natural methods of combating this insidious pest.
Natural defenders: ladybugs and lacewings
Nature has created ideal aphid hunters – ladybugs and lacewings. These insects not only effectively destroy pests, but also decorate the garden with their presence.
You can attract natural enemies of aphids by planting plants with small flowers: dill, fennel or cosmos. This method of control does not require expenses and is absolutely safe for the environment.
Soap solution: simplicity and effectiveness
A soap solution is a time-tested remedy for fighting aphids. To prepare it, just dissolve 30 grams of laundry soap in a liter of warm water. Spraying plants with this composition not only destroys pests, but also cleans leaves from dirt and dust.
It is important to remember that treatment should be carried out in cloudy weather or in the evening to avoid leaf burns.
Garlic Infusion: Aroma That Repels Pests
Garlic is not only a healthy product, but also an effective remedy against aphids. An infusion of crushed garlic cloves effectively repels pests and strengthens the immunity of plants.
To prepare the solution, simply pour 100 grams of crushed garlic into a liter of water and leave for 24 hours. Before use, the infusion should be filtered and diluted with water in a ratio of 1:10.
Ammonia: an unexpected helper
Ammonia is an unusual but effective remedy for fighting aphids. A solution of one tablespoon of ammonia per liter of water not only destroys pests, but also serves as an excellent fertilizer for plants.
However, it is important to be careful when using this method, as the concentrated solution may damage delicate leaves.
Herbal infusions: the power of natural ingredients
Decoctions of wormwood, tansy or tobacco are proven folk remedies for aphids. These plants contain substances that repel and destroy pests.
To prepare the decoction, pour 300 grams of dry grass with a liter of boiling water, leave for 2-3 hours, strain and dilute with water in a ratio of 1:2. Plants should be treated once a week to achieve maximum effect.
Prevention is the best cure
Prevention is the key to success in the fight against aphids. Regular inspection of plants, removal of weeds and proper watering will help prevent the appearance of pests. Healthy, strong plants are better able to resist attacks of aphids, so it is important to provide them with everything they need for growth and development.
The choice of aphid control method depends on the specific situation and the personal preferences of the gardener. Combining different methods will help achieve the best results and keep the garden healthy and blooming. Remember that patience and regularity are your main allies in the battle for plant health.
Earlier we talked about what you shouldn’t fertilize onions with.
