How to Kill Aphids in an Organic Garden

Aphids can be a major problem for the organic garden. These small insects hang onto the plants leaves or stems and suck out vital nutrients. Aphids also secrete a honeydew substance that attracts ants and other garden pests, along with transmitting certain plant diseases. Here are a few methods of killing aphids in an organic garden without using harmful chemical insecticides.

How to kill aphids in an organic garden: Catch them early

Ideally, you want to kill aphids in your organic garden early so they do not have the opportunity to damage your plants. As aphids suck on the plant's leaves, the leaves begin to curl up, providing shelter for the clusters of insects. Early spring is usually the best time to look for aphids on the plants in your organic garden. They will be found in clusters on the new shoots as they are beginning to grow. Some common plants that attract aphids include roses, honeysuckle, and a variety of vegetables. If you discover a cluster of these small gray or green bugs early enough, you can often just blast them off the plant with a strong stream of water.

How to kill aphids in an organic garden: Natural pest control

A common way to kill aphids and other pests in an organic garden is to use other insects that act as predators. Ladybugs are a known enemy of aphids and will add a colorful touch to your home organic garden. Ladybugs can be purchased at some garden supply stores as a means of natural pest control. Release the ladybugs near the base of the aphid-infested plant. Other predatory insects that can help control aphids in your organic garden include lacewings and hover flies. Instead of purchasing these predators, they can be attracted by planting sweet flowers in your organic garden.

How to kill aphids in an organic garden: Natural insecticides

There are also insecticides that are organically approved that can be used to kill aphids in your home garden. Insecticide soap is the most common organic pest control method. The soap breaks down the cellular structure of the aphid's body without harming your plants. While the insecticide it may appear similar to regular household soap, it is specially formulated to be gentler on your plants. Soybean oil can be a good preventative measure to keep aphids from coming back during the next growing season. Coating the plants in oil in late winter will choke off the aphid eggs so they cannot hatch and cause trouble for your organic garden the following year. Hot pepper wax can also be used as an aphid deterrent and will also keep animals from munching on your organic garden.