Do you wish to learn how to get rid of aphids on fruit trees? Aphids on fruit trees are very common and, when not treated, will cause damage.
You have noticed some changes in your fruit tree, and if you aren’t sure what you see, below is a picture of typical aphids.
Aphids on an apple tree
That’s an apple tree with aphid infestation.
In this Article;
What plants do aphids attack?
Aphids do not exhibit particular selectivity when it comes to the plants they feast on. These insects prefer to infest roses, sunflowers, dahlias, tomato buds, and several fruits, including peaches, plums, apples, cherries, and various types of berries. Nearly anything you plant in your garden can attract aphids.
What causes aphids on plants?
Aphids become more problematic when plants are stressed by drought, poor soil conditions, or overcrowding.
Aphids exhibit their highest level of activity during warm or hot temperatures and cause the most damage to plants in late spring.
Are aphids harmful to plants?
By sucking the juices from leaves and stems, aphids cause discoloration, leaf curling, yellowing, and stunted growth in a wide range of host plants.
What is the most common aphid?
Green peach aphid
Researchers have described more than 4,000 species of aphids, out of which about 250 are crop and ornamental plant pests. The most commonly found aphid in home gardens is the green peach aphid (Myzus persicae), which infests over 500 host plants.
Fortunately, aphids are not too difficult to eliminate, but prompt action is necessary at the first indication of an infestation. If left unchecked, the speed at which they reproduce can easily overwhelm the affected plant, and even if it survives, the damage can be severe.
Some time ago, I had aphids infested my chili plant, which caused its leaves to curl. Initially, I was uncertain about how to eliminate them. However, after conducting research and experimentation, I discovered the best methods for getting rid of aphids. Here is what I learned.
How to get rid of aphids on fruit trees
- Spray infected leaves with water or neem oil.
It may take two or more days before you notice a reduction in damage or a decrease in live insects when using neem oil, as it takes time to work. - Release ladybugs to feed on Aphids
Consider releasing ladybugs, which are natural predators of aphids. - Moisten with water
Use water as the first line of defense against aphids because aphids survive when it is warm.
Tools
- Knapsack sprayers
- Spray bottles
Materials
- Neem oil
- Ladybugs
- Water
Alternatively, you can control aphids in the garden using the steps below;
- Regularly monitor your trees for aphids.
- Check for the presence of ants in the tree. Ants are known to protect aphids from predators.
- If you detect ants, exclude them by any means necessary.
- Improve drought conditions by increasing soil moisture and humidity for the plants.
- Introduce flowers to attract other insects to feed on aphids.
- When all is done, you can choose to use neem oil or any recommended aphids control reagent in your locality.
Conclusion
Aphids can cause great damage to fruit trees and most crops. They can populate within the shortest time when there is drought and overcrowding of plants. Controlling aphids can be tedious sometimes. Prevent aphids from attacking plants by using the right spacing for plants, improving the soil conditions, and keeping the environment moist.
Sam is a blogger and an entrepreneur. More about Bio