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Aphids are a common problem for gardeners who tomatoes grow. This little one insects can be significant injury do to you plants by the juice from the to leaf through to suck, which leads to wilting in growth retardation. Fortunately, there are several natural methods to prevent aphids to fight without harmful chemicals to use.
Use of Natural Enemies
One of the most effective ways to combat aphids naturally is to use their natural enemies. Ladybugs, lacewings in gliding are all predatory insects that feed on aphids.
- Ladybugs: These colorful beetles can eat hundreds of aphids per day. You can buy ladybugs from garden centers or online stores and release them in your garden.
- Lacewings: The larvae of lacewings are known as “aphid lions” because of their voracious appetite for aphids. You can also purchase these and introduce them into your garden.
- Gliding: The larvae of hoverflies also feed on aphids. Make sure your garden has flowers that attract adult hoverflies, such as dill, cilantro and marigolds.
Plants of Repellents
Certain plants have properties that repel aphids. By placing these plants near your tomatoes, you can create a natural barrier against aphids.
- Garlic: The smell of garlic keeps many insects away, including aphids. Plant garlic between your tomato plants for effective defense.
- Munt: Mint has a strong odor that aphids do not like. Plant mint around your tomato beds to keep aphids away.
- Lavender: Lavender is not only beautiful and fragrant, but also acts as a natural repellent against aphids.
Use of Homemade Sprays
There are several homemade sprays that can be effective in controlling aphids. These sprays are easy to make and often contain ingredients you already have at home.
- Zeepwater Spray: Mix a few drops of mild liquid soap with water in a spray bottle. Spray this mixture directly on the aphids to suffocate them.
- Knoflook Spray: Mash a few cloves of garlic and soak them in water overnight. Strain the mixture and add it to a spray bottle. Spray this on the affected plants to deter aphids.
- Pepper Spray: Mix a teaspoon of cayenne pepper or chili powder with water and a few drops of soap. Spray this mixture on the leaves to scare away aphids.
Mechanical methods
Sometimes the simplest solution is the best. Mechanical methods can be very effective at removing aphids without using chemicals.
- Manually Remove: Use your fingers or a soft brush to brush the aphids off the plants. This is especially effective for small infestations.
- Water jet: A strong stream of water from the garden hose can help wash aphids off the plants. Make sure you spray both the top and bottom of the leaves.
Growing Healthy Plants
Healthy plants are less susceptible to pests such as aphids. By taking good care of your tomato plants, you can increase their resistance to insect pests.
- Good Soil Quality: Make sure your tomato plants are growing in fertile, well-drained soil. Add compost or organic matter to improve soil structure and nutritional value.
- Proper Watering: Water your tomato plants regularly, but avoid overwatering. Too much moisture can lead to root rot and other problems that weaken the plant.
- Mulch: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of your tomato plants to retain moisture and reduce weed growth. Mulch also helps keep soil temperatures stable.
By using these natural methods, you can effectively control aphids and grow healthy tomatoes without using harmful chemicals. Experiment with different techniques to see which ones work best for your garden environment.
