Plants will keep most destructive pest at bay with 'top remedy' — costs 69p
Gardening expert has shared how to keep destructive aphids, also known as greenfly, away from your plants.
Gardeners are being advised to reach for an unexpected ally in the fight against pests – none other than ordinary washing up liquid. The unconventional tip, which may provoke some scepticism, is backed by an garden expert.
TikTok gardening aficionado Ish, who goes by the handle gardening.with.ish, has pointed out that this everyday kitchen staple can combat a common horticultural menace – insects. In a recent video, Ish reveals his "top remedy" for fending off aphids, commonly known as greenfly, which notoriously adhere to and damage plant leaves. Addressing this tricky issue, Ish proffers savvy guidance including the use of household dish soap. He details in the clip: "My first solution is the dish soap method.
"Now, this one is super simple. Take a few tablespoons worth of dish soap, and pop it in a spray bottle. Top the rest off with some water."
As reports Devon Live, Ish said that this simple mix is particularly adept at dissolving the aphids' exoskeleton while sparing plants from harm, thus offering an efficient solution. He also suggests that aromatic planting as an additional repellent strategy.
The gardening guru claims implementing this can stop the persistent critters due to one crucial factor and provides several options for enhancing garden defences.
Ish mentions marigolds, onions or garlic as fragrant plant choices that naturally repel aphids thanks to their intense aromas.
Although he acknowledges that marigolds may still attract these pests, he points out that they can function as a sort of "trap plant", safeguarding the rest of your greenery.
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Positioning them near your larger plants should encourage pests to target the marigolds, leaving your other blooms unscathed.
These two techniques are suggested as effective ways to manage aphids in your garden. However, if these pests prove to be stubborn, there's another measure you can take.
Using a jet washer to blast them off is recommended as an efficient method of eradication. Moreover, introducing ladybirds into your garden could also prove beneficial.
Being natural predators of aphids, their presence will be extremely advantageous, contributing to the overall health and vitality of your plants.
So, what exactly are aphids?
Aphids, often referred to as greenflies or blackflies, are tiny insects that feed on sap and are infamous for being plant pests. They come in various colours including green, black, yellow and white, with sizes that can vary.
The pests feed by inserting their beaks into plant stems and leaves to extract the nutrient-rich sap.
If your garden is infested with them, there are several steps you can take to try and eliminate them. Some natural methods include spraying water on your plants, using soap or neem oil, or encouraging natural predators like ladybirds.
Consider removing weeds, planting companion plants and maintaining a healthy soil ecosystem to help tackle the problem. Regularly checking your plants will help you identify if you have them, especially if you're uncertain.
It's vital to recognise that weeds can attract aphids and other pests, underlining the significance of their elimination. Regular garden maintenance is paramount.
