A Plant Powered Approach to Controlling Aphids

Of all of the insects that commonly visit your garden, aphids seem to be the most unwelcome guest. We’ve received numerous phone calls this season from customers looking for lady bugs to release in their garden. Unfortunately, the lady beetle population was dramatically impacted by last years fires, so we haven’t be able to bring them into the nursery. The good news, there are other holistic approaches to try, before reaching for a chemical control. Simply try controlling your aphid population with plants!

Plants that Naturally Repel Aphids
Aphids aren’t big fans of aromatic herbs. Planting garlic, chives, leeks, catnip, fennel, dill and cilantro will help repel aphids. Marigolds are also known to drive away a number of unwanted pests. Research good companion plants for these garden additions and place them wisely.

Plants that Attract Aphids
While some plants naturally repel, others are known to attract aphids. These trap plants will allow the population to be concentrated in one location, making it easy to spray or remove the little guys from your garden. These plants include Nasturtiums, Nicotiana and Sunflowers. Just make sure not to plant them too close to your key plants, as aphids might travel.

Let us know how this plant powered approach to aphid control works for you! Share your comments below or on Instagram.