Aphid Control in Herb Gardens

Aphids are tiny and multiply fast, making them hard to control.

If you have aphids in your herb garden, then you likely want a natural method of controlling them instead of using pesticides. Fortunately, there are several safe, effective methods of natural aphid control in herb gardens.

Significance

If you have aphids in your herb garden, this means that there are not enough deterrents in the area. There are many types of insects and plants that will drive aphids away without interfering with your herbs.

Function

Aphid control in an herb garden limits the lifespan of the aphids so they do not have time to reproduce. Over the course of several generations (a week or two) you can eradicate the aphids completely by killing them before they lay their eggs.

Types

Aphid control in an herb garden can take the form of insects like lady bugs or praying mantises. Herbs like garlic and chives will repel aphids. Finally, there are some organic pesticides that can be safely used on herbs, but you need to check carefully to be sure you don't object to any of the theoretically "safe" ingredients.

Effects

If you opt for an insect control method, then the insects you install in your herb garden will live there as long as there are aphids available to eat. Plant control methods will last until you harvest the plants, while organic pesticides will kill the aphids on contact.

Time Frame

Depending on the severity of your aphid problem, it can take ladybugs or praying mantises a few days to a few weeks to rid your herb garden of aphids. Control herbs like garlic and chives will start repelling the aphids right away, but they may not prevent new aphids from hatching if eggs are left behind, so this can also take a few weeks to take effect. Pesticides act almost immediately, but must be reapplied throughout the growing season.

References

• University of California: Pests in Gardens and Landscapes
• n8ture.com: Herbal Companion Planting in the Vegetable Garden