
Woolly aphid has a number of natural enemies which help to keep it in check, although they are rarely effective enough to prevent damage occurring.
Encourage aphid predators in the garden. Where possible tolerate populations of aphids, they form an important part of many food chains and can be part of a healthy garden ecosystem. This is best done in spring or early summer before an extensive population has built up On small trees with light populations, it is possible to control woolly aphid by scrubbing the aphid colonies with a stiff-bristled brush.
Pesticide treatments are likely to kill natural enemies and are only likely to be successful if the entire plant can be reached. Within pesticides the shorter persistence products (that are usually certified for organic growing) are likely to be less damaging to non-target wildlife than those with longer persistence and/or systemic action. When choosing management options you can minimise harm to non-target animals by starting with the methods in the non-pesticide control section and avoiding pesticides.
Little can be done to deal with aphids on tall trees as treatment is only likely to be successful if the entire plant can be reached.
Malvern Autumn Show - 22–24 September 2023Ĭheck susceptible plants frequently from spring onwards so action can be taken before a damaging population has developed. RHS Garden Wisley Flower Show - 5–10 September 2023. RHS Garden Rosemoor Flower Show - 18–20 August 2023. RHS Garden Hyde Hall Flower Show - 2–6 August 2023. RHS Flower Show Tatton Park - 19–23 July 2023. RHS Hampton Court Palace Garden Festival - 4–9 July 2023.