Article content
Aphids are small insects that can attack any plant and reach about 2 – 5 mm in size. They occur in large numbers and appear suddenly. The attack of these pests results in crop damage, because they feed on plant sap and transmit viral diseases. They are the dread of every gardener and when you find them on your plants, you should act immediately!
Aphids multiply very quickly and move to other plants.
They then change their appearance, color, and shape. The affected plant does not produce new leaves or young shoots.
How to prevent this without using chemicals?
To prevent the occurrence of aphids, you need to ensure that your garden is not infested with weeds. If you notice ants in your garden, there is a high probability of aphids too, because ants feed on their excretions called honeydew and can serve as a means of transport. These are the methods that will help you with aphids without having to use chemicals!
Repellent plants
Some plants bother aphids and are therefore a great tool to repel them. For example, if you plant mint, lavender or garlic in the garden, it is likely that aphids will not appear at all. It is an excellent, simple and safe method of prevention against aphids.
Natural sprays for aphids
1. Garlic extract
Pour 200 g of crushed garlic cloves over with 10 liters of water and let it steep for 24 hours. Use the spray immediately after preparation, because it is not suitable for storage. Pour the strained solution into a sprayer and spray both sides of the leaves.
2. Onion decoction
Chop 75 g of onion, pour 10 liters of hot water over it and boil for a while. After cooling, strain and pour into a sprayer. You can use it immediately, but it can be stored for up to 2 months.
3. Dandelion extract
Dandelion is also extremely effective against aphids. Simply pour 40 g of dandelion leaves into 10 liters of water and let steep for at least 3 hours. After this time you can use the strained solution.
4. Baking soda for everything
Few people know that baking soda, which we use for cooking and cleaning, is also extremely effective in the garden. Prepare the solution by adding 2 teaspoons of baking soda to 1/2 liter of water. With this method, however, be careful and follow the exact dosing. Exceeding the dose can cause leaf blackening. This method works within 24 hours!
