Pest Watch – Aphids, Snails, Slugs & More5

Autumn

Problem:
Aphids suck the sap from new shoots and flower buds and may transmit virus diseases if not controlled.

Solution:
Wipe them off with the fingers or spray with low toxic controls like Confidor®, Slay-Afe or Derris Dust.

Problem:
Snails and slugs devastate newly planted annual and vegetable seedlings. Eggs hatch in autumn and they grow quickly but quick action will prevent them maturing.

Solution:
Apply a snail and slug bait such as Blitzem, safe for pets, Defender or Baysol slug and snail pellets. For tiny snails resting under leaves use a spray on snail killer.

Winter

Problem:
Bronze orange bugs (stinkbugs) hatch in winter and by spring are small green or orange bugs. They turn almost black by summer.

Solution:
Spray with white oil in winter to clean nymphs but Bayer Folimat® Garden Insecticide Aerosol for older bugs.

Problem:
Mealy bugs are persistent sap-suckers lodging on indoor plants, citrus and ornamentals. These small bugs are covered by a fluffy white casing and gather under leaves or in leaf joints and roots.

Solution:
Spray with Confidor (outside) and drench soil to clean up root areas. Spray the undersides of leaves to deter them. Repeat treatments are necessary.