How to recognize aphids?
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Tiny green, black, or red insects on leaves and shoots
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Curled or distorted leaves
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Sticky substance (honeydew) on plant surfaces
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Ants "farming" around the plant
Why do they appear?
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Over-fertilization with nitrogen
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Weak plants or poor growing conditions
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Mild winters – more aphids survive and start early
How to control them?
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Rinse off with water
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Spray with neem oil or insecticidal soap
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Encourage natural predators (e.g. ladybugs, lacewings)
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Prune heavily infested shoots
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