How can I get rid of Aphids on my trees?

Posted on: June 12th, 2015

Aphids are one of the biggest threats to trees and shrubs and unfortunately find their way into every garden.
These tiny insects can live in almost any habitat and reproduce very rapidly. The goal is to control them before reproduction gets underway. Faced with an aphid attack on your hands, it’s time to take action. And fast. Several generations of aphids can occur in a single season.
Aphids are often invisible to the naked eye. If you looked at an aphid under a microscope they might appear white, black, brown, grey or quite possibly pink. Adults are usually without any wings but the majority of aphids can developed wings when necessary – this might be in the event that their food source diminishes and they need to travel to other plants.
What kind of damage do aphids cause?
Aphid nymphs and adults survive on plant sap and attack leaves, stems, flowers, buds – anything containing it within the plant – to feed.

The following signs indicate aphid damage:

• Misshapen, curling or yellow trees. Aphids like to live underneath leaves so make sure you check below as well as on top.
• A stick substance on the leaves is often a good sign that aphids have been feeding on the sap. This liquid is a honeydew that is produced by the aphids as a waste product. The honeydew in itself appeals to other insects such as ants which collect it as a food source and can stick to his cars and windows.
• Honeydew is sometimes responsible for causing a fungal growth called sooty mold which can turn leaves and branches black.
• Aphids are capable of transmitting diseases and viruses to other plants and are likely to attract other insects which primarily feed on aphids as a food source.

What’s the best way of controlling aphids?

• One of the most natural methods of removing aphids is to spray cold water on the leaves. Sometimes this simple approach is very effective.
• There are a range of insecticide sprays and soaps that are designed to tackle aphid infestations. Talk to an expert for the best product for different species of trees and shrubs.
• It is possible to buy insects such as lady beetles and certain types of wasps which will feed on aphids and control populations naturally. You can also add plants to the garden which attract these aphid-eating insects.
• There are various organic products on the market including alcohol sprays which can help homeowners keep on top of the problem.

There are many resources available online to keep you combat aphid problems but if you’re worried about the health of your trees as a result of a recent infestation then it’s best to seek expert advice.

We hope you found this article on ‘How can I get rid of aphids on my tree’ useful, if you would like to discuss any aspect of this article then please do not hesitate to call Prince Tree Surgery on 01277 229709.