😒 Anyone else dealing with aphids right now?😑

In all honesty, years ago, when I would get an infestation like this, I was likely to ditch the plant in fear of aphids taking over the garden.🤷🏼‍♀️ In time, I've learned to better deal with the situation so that both the plant and the garden can get back to a healthy balance.🌱 So, here's what I do...

Day 1: Spray (pretty aggressively) the affected areas with a hose. I literally rinse the aphids off the plant.💦

Day 2: Assess areas to see if and how many have returned. Trim the areas with the largest colonies, and don't be afraid to take off what is needed. I've removed 3/4 of infested plants, and they can still grow back healthier and more robust. If you need to remove more than 3/4 - then maybe it is time for the plant to go.👎

Day 3: Determine the severity of the aphid situation. Still a big issue? Try giving another rinse (Day 1) and trim (Day 2).

Only a few remaining aphids? Just prune away those last few affected areas. ✂️ This method has worked for me, and I hope it gives you a plan to fight these little buggers. Good luck and let me know how it works for!👍

P.s. Do you know who loves to eat aphids? The ladybug.🐞 And - ladybugs love Zinnias. Sometimes you can even help prevent the situation by creating healthy biodiversity in you garden.🌼

#organicgarden #aphidsonmilkweed #aphidsbegone #organicpestcontrol #urbangardener #familygardening