How to Get Rid of Aphids on Cherry Tomato Plant

Aphids are small, soft-bodied insects that are commonly found on plants, including cherry tomato plants. They feed on the sap of the plants and can cause significant damage if left unchecked. Fortunately, there are several ways to get rid of aphids on cherry tomato plants.

Identify the Aphids

Before you can effectively get rid of aphids on your cherry tomato plant, you need to identify them. Aphids are small, usually less than a quarter inch in length, and come in a variety of colors, including green, yellow, black, and brown. They are usually found in clusters on the undersides of leaves or near new growth.

Natural Remedies

There are several natural remedies that can help get rid of aphids on cherry tomato plants:

• Ladybugs: Ladybugs are natural predators of aphids and can be purchased online or at a garden center. Release them onto your cherry tomato plant and they will eat the aphids.

• Soap and Water: Mix a few drops of dish soap with water and spray it onto the aphids. The soap will suffocate the insects, killing them.

• Neem Oil: Neem oil is a natural insecticide that can be purchased at a garden center. Mix it with water according to the instructions and spray it onto the aphids.

• Garlic Spray: Crush several garlic cloves and mix them with water. Let the mixture sit overnight and then strain it through a cheesecloth. Spray the garlic water onto the aphids.

Chemical Remedies

If natural remedies do not work, there are chemical remedies that can be used to get rid of aphids:

• Insecticidal Soap: Insecticidal soap is a specially formulated soap that kills aphids on contact. It can be purchased at a garden center and should be applied according to the instructions.

• Pyrethrin: Pyrethrin is a natural insecticide that is made from chrysanthemum flowers. It can be purchased at a garden center and should be applied according to the instructions.

• Systemic Insecticides: Systemic insecticides are absorbed by the plant and kill aphids when they feed on the plant. They can be purchased at a garden center and should be applied according to the instructions.

Prevention

Preventing aphids from infesting your cherry tomato plants is key to avoiding the need to get rid of them. Here are some prevention tips:

• Inspect New Plants: Inspect new plants for aphids before bringing them into your garden.

• Use Companion Plants: Plant companion plants, such as marigolds, that repel aphids.

• Keep Your Garden Clean: Remove any dead or diseased plant material from your garden as aphids are attracted to weak plants.

FAQ

Are ladybugs effective in getting rid of aphids on cherry tomato plants?

Yes, ladybugs are natural predators of aphids and can be effective in getting rid of them.

Can pyrethrin harm my cherry tomato plant?

Pyrethrin is a natural insecticide that is safe for use on cherry tomato plants. However, it should be applied according to the instructions.

How often should I apply insecticidal soap?

Insecticidal soap should be applied every seven to ten days or as needed.