Aphids are a common problem in German gardens, especially in summer. Usually the first ones appear when the weather starts to warm up. The majority of pests can be found as early as June and July, as the combination of warm and humid weather creates optimal living conditions for them. In this article you will find out how you can get rid of them and which home remedies against aphids are helpful!
Aphids are small teardrop-shaped insects, typically 1-3 mm long, characterized by two backward-facing spines that protrude from the abdomen. They suck out the plant sap, which leads to deformities and reduced plant growth. They can also transmit various viral diseases between plants and cause fungal infestation.
They also give birth in large numbers - a single female can give birth to 40-100 young during her lifetime of up to three weeks. Therefore, they can quickly form large colonies on plants. They give birth without fertilization, in a process known as virginity.
There are many species of aphids that can attack plants, but these are usually dominant: cucumber aphid, peach aphid and potato aphid. Depending on the species, aphids can be yellowish, greenish, brown or black in color.
What are the best home remedies for aphids?
Find out which home remedies are effective against aphids and how to use them correctly to save your garden from the pests!
Warning!It is not legal to use homemade “remedies” of any kind to control pests or weeds in the garden. Even if they are harmless remedies that you find in the kitchen cupboard.
onion extractis a perfect home remedy against aphids. Onions can be found in every kitchen, and it is not difficult to make broth from them. All you need is onions, water and
a large pot.
Cut the onion (max. 100g) into pieces, add about 10 liters of water and cook over low heat for 30 minutes. After another 30 minutes the broth is ready for use. Fill it into a spray bottle and spray the affected plants with it several times within a week.
- Notice: The onion extract not only works against aphids, but is also a perfect remedy against fungal diseases of plants.
Garlic extractis another equally effective home remedy for getting rid of aphids. To prepare this natural solution, grind 200-300 g of garlic. Add 10 liters of water and let it stand for 24 hours. Dilute the extract in a 1:1 ratio with water and it is ready to use. You can keep the home solution against aphids for a maximum of 2 months. Remember to store them in an airtight pot and place them in a dark place.
- Notice: You cannot overdose on these solutions, so you can use large amounts when spraying the plants.
Solution of soft soap and water
A well-known and proven method for controlling aphids is to use a mixture of soft soap and water that is sprayed on. This homemade solution is very effective because it dries out the wax layer that protects the aphids. This causes the population to dry out and cannot survive.
- Here's how to prepare it: Dissolve 50 grams of soft soap in 1 liter of warm water. Pour the mixture into a spray bottle and spray directly onto the affected area. This method works when an infestation is in progress, but cannot be used to prevent pests.
Other home remedies for aphids: Milk and skimmed milk, baking soda, cayenne pepper are among the remedies that are said to also help combat pests in the garden. However, it is uncertain whether there is any truth to this.
Home remedies for aphids – vinegar + dish soap
Spraying with vinegar is also the most popular pest control method. To make a vinegar solution, mix it with water in a 1:10 ratio.
- Notice: When preparing the solution, always pour vinegar into water - not the other way around, as this can lead to harmful chemical reactions.
Optionally, you can add a spoonful of soap or a few drops of dishwashing detergent. This way the solution will adhere better to the plants. The soap also ensures a longer shelf life. After preparing the liquid, pour it into a spray bottle and mist the plants. Don't just spray from above - pay attention to the underside of the leaves, as this is where the aphids are most likely to reside.
Other ecological methods for controlling aphidsyou can find here!
These tasty fruits are not only good for your health but also useful in fighting pests that attack your beloved plants. Fans of the zero-waste movement are sure to appreciate this simple method of aphid control. You will need the following items: bananas (2-3 are enough), water and a mason jar.
- Cut the peels into smaller pieces, add them to the mason jar and fill it with water.
- Cover and place in a cool, dark place for about two weeks. In the meantime, you can add more banana peels from eaten fruits.
- When the mixture is ready, strain it and mix it 1:1 with water.
- Use the liquid to spray the lice-infested leaves. The insects should be gone after 1-2 applications.
Banana peel extract is a perfect aphid killer, but you can also use it as a plant fertilizer, for example for tomatoes. You can actually use banana peels for multiple purposes in the garden. What these areyou can find out here!
