Methods of Dealing with Aphids 0 11

The question is answered by biologist Ivan RUSSIAN:

- Aphids are widespread and dangerous plant pests. They not only suck the sap but can also carry various diseases, including viral ones, from which plants cannot be cured. Feeding on leaves, flowers, and fruits, aphids excrete a sweet substance — honeydew, which attracts ants that protect them from natural enemies such as lacewings and ladybugs. If there are not enough ants, sooty mold can develop on the honeydew, forming a black coating on the plants. The spores of this fungus can cause serious allergic reactions. As you can see, the harm from aphids is quite significant!

However, fighting aphids is not that difficult. The first remedy is soap. You can use regular household soap (only brown), but potassium green soap is the best option. To prepare a soap solution, take one tablespoon of grated soap per 1 liter of water and treat the plants by wiping or spraying them. If the plants are indoors, the solution should be washed off after a day. Otherwise, rain or heavy dew will wash away the remnants of the soap and the dead pests. It is recommended to repeat the procedure every 7 days.

A more radical method is the use of synthetic or natural insecticides. The former include “Intavir,” “Aktara,” and similar preparations. The latter include “Aktofit” and “Fitoverm.” I do not recommend using any of them, except for “Aktara,” indoors, especially in the presence of children. “Aktara” is good because it can be poured onto the plants instead of being sprayed. The active substance penetrates through the roots into the entire plant, causing the pests to die after ingesting the poison.

BY THE WAY

The method using a soap solution is also effective against spider mites, especially on houseplants. Moreover, the soap solution is practically safe for beneficial insects and can be used indoors.