Sasha CampbellApple aphids are tiny, sap-sucking insects. They can harm apple trees and their fruits.
Luckily, there are natural methods to control and eliminate these aphids.
We will explore home remedies to tackle aphid infestations on apple trees. This includes DIY sprays and physical removal.
Signs of Aphids on Apple Trees
Before jumping into treatments, it’s essential to recognize aphid infestations early.
Aphids are small, pear-shaped insects that come in various colors. Colors include light green, black, pinkish-red, yellowish-green, and more [1, 2].
On apple trees, they typically cluster on leaves or buds. The rosy apple aphid may also cluster on young fruits.
Some signs that these pests may be affecting your trees include curling and yellowing of leaves. You may also notice malformed fruit and stunted growth of shoots.
Sticky “honeydew” residue may also appear. It often attracts ants or leads to a black, sooty mold on the tree.
How to Get Rid of Apple Aphids Naturally
Below are some effective strategies to naturally control apple aphids and protect your apple harvest.
1. Diatomaceous Earth
Food-grade diatomaceous earth (DE) can kill apple aphids organically.
When aphids come into contact with DE, the powder’s tiny, sharp particles damage their outer layers. This causes them to dehydrate and die.
Therefore, sprinkle a light dusting of DE on infested parts of the apple tree. Be sure to focus on areas where aphids are active.
2. Pepper Spray
Pepper spray is a natural aphid deterrent that you can use on your fruit trees. Capsaicin in peppers irritates pests, making your trees less appealing to them.
To create pepper spray, blend ten hot peppers and add to a gallon of water. Next, strain out the solids and add the liquid to a spray bottle.
You can also add a teaspoon of castile soap to help the spray work better. Use this homemade apple aphid spray as needed on infested areas.
Pepper spray can also deter other pests and bugs on apple trees.
However, be cautious to avoid overuse. Too much of this spray could cause leaf burn on some plants.
3. Garlic Spray
Garlic has natural insect-repelling properties due to its strong odor.
To make garlic spray for apple aphids, blend five cloves of garlic into two cups of water. Next, strain the mixture and add a few drops of liquid soap before adding everything to a spray bottle.
Finally, spray this solution onto infested areas, ensuring thorough coverage.
Garlic spray not only helps repel aphids but also wards off other pests. This makes it a beneficial, all-purpose solution for the garden.
Repeat applications may be necessary, especially after rain or watering.
4. Natural Predators
Encouraging or introducing natural predators of aphids can help control them in the long term.
Ladybugs, lacewing larvae, and some wasps can reduce aphid numbers. They are natural enemies of aphids [3].
Plant marigolds, dill, and fennel near your apple trees. They may attract beneficial insects. You can also purchase ladybugs or lacewing larvae and release them in the area.
5. Onion Spray
Onion spray works similarly to garlic spray, repelling aphids with its potent smell.
To make it, chop three onions and steep them (throw in the skins) in one liter of hot water for a few hours.
Later, strain the liquid and pour it into a spray bottle. When ready to apply, dilute one cup of the concentrated onion water with two cups of pure water.
Apply this DIY apple tree aphid treatment to affected parts of the tree.
Like garlic, onion spray repels pests. It is also safe for the trees and the environment.
6. Squish Them with Your Hand
It may sound unpleasant. But squishing aphids with your fingers removes them swiftly and effectively.
Wearing garden gloves, gently rub aphid-infested areas.
Though time-consuming, hand-squishing is particularly useful for small infestations. It provides immediate control without the need for sprays.
7. Hose Them
If aphid infestations are light, using a hose to wash them off can be an effective organic control method.
A strong stream of water dislodges aphids from leaves and stems. This strong gush of water will kill them [4].
This method works best on small trees where you can easily reach all parts of the plant.
However, be mindful of the water pressure. Too much force could damage delicate leaves or young fruit.
8. Neem Oil
Neem oil is a versatile natural insecticide that targets many pests, including aphids.
To use, dilute two tablespoons of neem oil in one gallon of water. Next, add two tablespoons of dish soap to the neem oil water.
Shake well before spraying your plants.
Consistent use of this home remedy can help keep apple aphids under control.
9. Horticultural Oil
Horticultural oil can help control green apple aphids, woolly apple aphids, black aphids on apple trees, and other fruit tree aphids.
When appropriately applied, horticultural oil coats the aphids and smothers them.
Apply it as instructed. Cover all infested parts of the tree.
10. Soapy Water
One of the simplest and most affordable methods to control aphids is soapy water. Soap can suffocate them.
Mix one to two teaspoons of mild liquid soap (like dish soap) in a liter of water to make a soapy water solution.
Spray the solution directly onto aphids on leaves, stems, fruits, and other plant parts. However, the soap must make contact with aphids to be effective, so it should be thorough.
Reapply this DIY treatment every few days as needed.
Takeaway
Dealing with aphids on apple trees takes persistence and a mix of natural methods.
Early detection is also crucial. Untreated infestations can weaken trees and compromise fruit production.
Whichever remedy you choose, these methods can protect your apple trees from aphids. They are practical, eco-friendly options.
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