My milkweed crop is LOADED, that is completely covered in orange aphids. Should I cut them down, bag them and get rid of them. Where do aphids go in winter. Soil?
Thank you for contacting Toronto Master Gardeners with your question.
The best solution to ridding your plants of these pests is your garden hose set on full blast. Spraying them will knock them to the ground and they will be unable to return to the host. Do this every few days until you no longer see any signs of them. Where aphid infestation is abundant you can use insecticidal soap, which is available at your local garden center. Make sure to follow directions on the label.
Aphids could overwinter in your garden in standing weeds or dead plants. Don’t wait until the springtime to clean up the garden, as this can provide the perfect habitat for aphid eggs to be sheltered under. Inspect trees and bushes for aphid eggs in the fall, remove them by hand, vacuum or with a strong blast of water.
The following websites give additional information on how to control these pests.
- https://monarchbutterflygarden.net/control-aphids-milkweed-plants/
- https://underwoodgardens.com/controlling-aphids-naturally/
Good luck !