Aphids that came inside with the plants

[Arielphf]

I have a question about plants that I brought in off the porch for the winter. Apparently, I brought aphids in with it. Big surprise there. I've sprayed the plant off several times with a water jet but I didn't change out the soil which I realize now was a mistake. The aphids are definitely thriving but I keep seeing these little tan colored round things. I thought they were egg sacs or something, but now I suspect they are parasitized aphids being killed by something that is preying on them. I haven't seen the predators, but they must have come in at the same time as the aphids. Will the predators eventually overwhelm the aphids? Should I wait them out or try and remove them both? I am worried that, if I go whole hog, changing out soil, spraying off plant and root, that I won't get all the aphids, but will remove the parasites that are going after them. Can anyone share their experience and advise me on what is the best course of action?

 

[pepper2.0]

I use Diatomaceous earth for aphids and other garden pests, I don't like pesticides. Lots of people on here use a neem oil/water/soap mix spray.

If you want to try the DE you can get it on amazon, most pet stores have it too. A little dusting on and under the leaves and plant as well as the top of the soil should help. It doesn't work if its wet though so try not to get any water on the plant when giving it a drink.

 

[pepper2.0]

I use Diatomaceous earth for aphids and other garden pests, I don't like pesticides. Lots of people on here use a neem oil/water/soap mix spray.

If you want to try the DE you can get it on amazon, most pet stores have it too. A little dusting on and under the leaves and plant as well as the top of the soil should help. It doesn't work if its wet though so try not to get any water on the plant when giving it a drink.

I should mention if you use DE and have a pet don't let them sniff it off the plants.

 

[Arielphf]

I have some of that for the fish filter - that is a great idea! Do you wipe it on? Dust it? Thanks in advance.

 

[Arielphf]

I should mention if you use DE and have a pet don't let them sniff it off the plants.

I do have pets, and I have heard this is a problem. The plant in question has pet spikes on the soil surface to keep the cats off, but this sounds like the problem is if it is inhaled? I will have to research this.

 

[pepper2.0]

I have some of that for the fish filter - that is a great idea! Do you wipe it on? Dust it? Thanks in advance.

Dust it on lightly, like sprinkling a little at a time with your fingers. If you get some clumps fall you can just give the plant a little shake to get the excess off.

 

[pepper2.0]

I do have pets, and I have heard this is a problem. The plant in question has pet spikes on the soil surface to keep the cats off, but this sounds like the problem is if it is inhaled? I will have to research this.

It's like tiny little razor blades, not good for the lungs. But it would probably be more a dog that would be sniffing it off the plant.

 

[Chuck]

I have some of that for the fish filter - that is a great idea! Do you wipe it on? Dust it? Thanks in advance.

The DE used in water and pool filters is NOT the same DE used in gardening. The DE used in gardening has sharp, jagged edges, while the filter DE is spherical and will not abrade.

 

[pepper2.0]

The DE used in water and pool filters is NOT the same DE used in gardening. The DE used in gardening has sharp, jagged edges, while the filter DE is spherical and will not abrade.

Interesting! I thought the only difference is food grade and non food grade. I got mine in a 5lb bulk bag off Amazon, Harris brand fresh water food grade. I know it works from using it but it doesn't say anything about fish on it. I have to investigate this!

 

[pepper2.0]

The DE used in water and pool filters is NOT the same DE used in gardening. The DE used in gardening has sharp, jagged edges, while the filter DE is spherical and will not abrade.

My AI said:
"Diatomaceous earth (DE) used for pest control in gardens typically has jagged edges that are effective at killing pests by cutting through their exoskeletons and causing them to dehydrate. This type is often labeled as **food-grade DE**.

On the other hand, the DE used in fish tanks is usually **calcined** or heat-treated, which smooths out the jagged edges and makes it safe for aquatic life. This type is more for **filtration** purposes and won't be as effective for pest control in your garden.

So, if you're looking to use DE for pest control, make sure to get the food-grade variety with jagged edges."

Good to know, thanks @Chuck

 

[Arielphf]

"So, if you're looking to use DE for pest control, make sure to get the food-grade variety with jagged edges."

Awesome information, thanks both of you! I have food grade stuff too. Thank you for this, I will definitely be dusting on OUTSIDE the house and tapping it off to protect the pets.