| Aphids have natural enemies in the garden, including lady bug larvae and parasitizing wasps. If you wait, the natural controls will arrive. If you can't wait, hose the aphids off with a strong stream of water or use insecticidal soap sprays. Insecticidal soap sprays (several brands are widely available at garden centers) are a good, low-impact way to manage aphids. Mix the soap spray according to label instructions and direct sprays upward from beneath the plants. If the spray is to be effective it must contact the insects which are often hiding on under surface of the leaves. Repeat sprays on a weekly basis as needed. If you use soap spray repeatedly it is a good idea to periodically spray the plants off with water to rinse off any soap residues. |
