If you’re a keen gardener like me, you’ve likely noticed that the warmer months seem to breed all manner of pests, with aphids being one of the most troublesome. Aphids can cause significant damage and thrive when temperatures are warm but not too hot, making it essential to keep an eye out during this time.
Aphids move rather slowly and are actually very easy to manage naturally, which is why I’m eager to share with you my tried-and-tested advice for tackling aphids organically.
Most commercial insect repellents contain toxic chemicals like DEET, carbamates, and neonicotinoids, which are harmful to the environment. These chemicals are not only detrimental to human health and pets but can also cause serious damage to bees, destroying ecosystems. Their toxic ingredients don’t biodegrade and stay in our environment for years, which is why I wanted to create a natural, organic choice.
How to Stop Aphids Naturally
It’s so important to me to avoid chemical solutions, which is why I developed a natural alternative that is pet-safe, bee-safe, and 100% organic. Made with the essential oil of the Cedrus (Cedar) tree, known for its effectiveness in repelling aphids, our natural aphid repellent is a lovely, plant-safe option that biodegrades, is environmentally safe, and also helps deter lice and weevils. I mist my herbs and roses to help deter aphids from laying their eggs. It’s safe to use on all of your plants, including your edibles.
Gardeners have devised many ingenious tactics to battle insects while avoiding nasty chemicals. One great way to deter aphids and similar pests is to underplant with plants they hate. Companion planting is a fantastic way to organically get rid of aphids while also growing edibles for yourself—it’s a win-win situation. Some natural insect repellents include nasturtium, spearmint, southernwood, garlic, potatoes, parsley, basil, horseradish, and stinging nettles.
Another way to repel aphids is to employ natural predators. You can create an environment that attracts these predators to your garden by planting varieties they love. Clover, mint, dill, fennel, and yarrow will lure ladybirds and green lacewings, both known for controlling aphids as a chemical-free solution. You can even purchase these beneficial insects online. Additionally, you can plant "trap plants" to lure aphids away from the plants you’re trying to protect—zinnias, dahlias, cosmos, asters, mustard, and nasturtium are ideal for this.
Also, make sure to keep your garden clear of dead plant material that may harbor aphid eggs over the winter. You could even provide houses or grow small trees and shrubs for bug-eating birds like wrens or chickadees, who will repay you by ridding your garden of insects.
If you're looking for more natural ways to keep pests out of your garden and home, these posts might interest you:
- Learn how to naturally repel clothes moths.
- Find effective strategies to deter spiders in your home.
- Discover how to prevent snails from eating your plants naturally.
- Get tips on eliminating ants without the use of harmful chemicals.
Talk soon,
Bella x