How to Catch Aphids

Make your own sticky trap with yellow card stock.

Aphids are one of the most common garden pests. These tiny creatures are ubiquitous and often feed unnoticed. But an aphid infestation can quickly get out of control, especially in a greenhouse. Aphids are literally born pregnant. Once they hatch, aphids give birth to up to 10 aphids per day. To prevent an infestation, set traps to catch scouting aphids migrating in spring before they can lay eggs and start a colony.

Things You'll Need

• Yellow sticky trap
• Twist tie
• Stake

Instructions

1. Place one yellow sticky trap -- 2 for heavy infestations -- per 1,000 square feet of garden, or the density that the yellow sticky trap's manufacturer suggests. Hang the sticky trap in a position adjacent to the plant from a branch or stake near the plants with a twist tie via the hole in the top of the sticky trap. Keep the trap at least 6 to 10 inches away from any foliage. Keep the sticky trap at least 4 feet off the ground.

2. Remove the paper backing protecting the sticky surface of the yellow sticky trap, if present.

3. Inspect the sticky traps once every few days. Remove and replace them when flying aphids cover the surface. Scrape off any leaves or other large debris that becomes attached to the sticky trap with a stick or other disposable implement.

4. Remove the sticky traps once no more aphids become stuck to its surface. Otherwise the traps may trap the beneficial insects in the area that may be responsible for keeping the aphid population under control.

Tips & Warnings

• Wipe the yellow sticky trap's sticky coating off your fingers with vegetable or mineral oil.

• Yellow sticky traps only catch flying aphids. They are not enough to stop a full scale infestation. For that you may either prune heavily infested foliage, spray the aphids off the plant or treat the plant with an insecticidal soap or horticultural oil.

• Yellow sticky traps may be found at most home and garden centers. Or, you can make your own by coating a yellow index card with petroleum jelly. Make sure that the card is yellow; the yellow color is what attracts the aphids.

References

• Health Canada: Aphids - What Are They?
• Bougainvillea Growers International: Aphids
• Department of Environment and Conservation: Aphids
• University of Minnesota: Introduction to Aphids