Using Nettle Infusions to Get Rid of Aphids Naturally

Using Nettle Infusions to Get Rid of Aphids

Aphids, also known as plant lice, can be a real nuisance in the garden. These small, soft-bodied insects attach themselves to stems and leaves and suck out the sap. An infestation can quickly get out of control, stunting plant growth and spreading diseases. Luckily, there are some effective organic solutions for controlling aphids, including using nettle infusions.

What Are Aphids?

Aphids are tiny, pear-shaped bugs that colonize the tender parts of plants. They pierce the plant tissues and feed on sap. The excess sugar-rich fluid they excrete, called honeydew, encourages mold growth. Aphids also spread viral diseases. Common species include green peach aphids, potato aphids, woolly apple aphids, and rose aphids.

Why Use Nettles?

Stinging nettle (Urtica dioica) contains minerals like nitrogen, potassium, and phosphorous that provide a nutritious fertilizer for plants. The hair-like stingers on nettle leaves contain histamine, acetylcholine, serotonin, and formic acid that are irritating to insects. Nettle infusions contain these compounds and other insecticidal ingredients.

Making a Nettle Infusion

An infusion is made by steeping leaves in hot water, which extracts more of the plant's nutrients and active compounds than a standard tea. To make a nettle infusion:

1. Harvest nettle leaves and stems using gloves to avoid stings.
2. Chop or crush 1-2 cups of fresh nettles.
3. Add to a quart jar and cover with boiling water. Leave 2 inches at the top.
4. Steep for 2-12 hours, until the liquid is dark and fragrant.
5. Strain out the solid nettle parts.
6. Dilute the finished infusion with water to make 1-2 gallons of spray.

Using Nettle Spray on Aphids

Nettle infusion sprayed directly on aphids and infested plants can help safely eliminate populations. The formic acid chemically burns through the insects protective coat and deters feeding. Regular applications also deter aphids from returning.

To use, simply pour the dilution into a spray bottle. Target the undersides of leaves and stems where aphids hide. Spray every 5-7 days until the infestation clears. Reapply after rain or watering. Be sure to coat surrounding soil and plants to protect from reinfestation.

Other Nettle Uses

Nettle infusions provide an organic, chemical-free pest control option. Other benefits of using nettles include:

• Adding nutrients back to soil as a natural fertilizer.
• Promoting plant health and resistance to diseases.
• Repelling other harmful insects like whiteflies and spider mites.
• Providing an organic herbicide against weeds.
• Reducing fungal issues like powdery mildew.

Companion Planting with Nettles

Interplanting nettles close to vegetables and flowers can help protect them from pests. Nettles boost growth and yields when planted alongside:

• Tomatoes
• Peppers
• Broccoli
• Cabbage
• Beans
• Grapes

The sharp nettle hairs and strong scent help mask the smell of desirable crops from potential pests. Growing nettles near aromatic herbs like mint, garlic, and onions can offer a similar protective effect.

When to Avoid Nettle Sprays

Nettle infusions should not be sprayed directly on plant flowers or buds. The compounds can upset pollinators like bees. It's best to pinpoint treatment only where aphids are actively feeding. Test nettle spray on a small area first since the irrigation can burn some tender plant tissues.

Control Aphids Organically With Nettles

Nettle infusions provide a simple, DIY pest control solution for aphids and other sap-feeding insects. The all-natural spray deters pests while boosting plant growth and soil health. Harnessing the power of stinging nettles is an easy, non-toxic way to protect your garden from invaders.

FAQs

What's the best way to harvest nettles?

Use gloves to avoid stings when harvesting nettle leaves and stems. Target young leaves before plants flower. Cut off the top 6-8 inches of growth or individual leaves. Nettles can regrow after cutting.

How long does nettle infusion last?

Fresh nettle infusion will keep for 2-3 days in the fridge. For longer storage, pour into ice cube trays and freeze. Add frozen nettle cubes directly to water to make spray as needed.

How often should you spray nettle infusion?

Treat plants with nettle spray every 5-7 days while aphids are present. Reapply after heavy rain or watering. Repeat applications will deter reinfestation and boost plant health.

Does nettle infusion work on other pests?

Yes, nettle infusions can help control small soft-bodied insects like whiteflies, spider mites, and thrips. It also deters cabbage worms, beetles, weevils, and other chewing pests as a natural insecticide.