How to Get Rid of Aphids on Coleus Plant

Introduction

Coleus plants are popular ornamental plants that serve as beautiful decor for homes and gardens. These plants are easy to grow, come in various colors and sizes, and require minimal maintenance. However, like all plants, coleus can be attacked by pests, and one of the most common pests that attack coleus is aphids.

Aphids are tiny insects that suck the sap out of leaves, stems, and flowers, causing them to wilt or die. They reproduce quickly and can cause significant damage to your plant if not controlled early. In this article, we will discuss how to get rid of aphids on coleus plants.

Identify Aphids on Coleus Plant

Before you can get rid of aphids, you need to be able to identify them. Aphids are small (1/16 to 1/8 inches long), pear-shaped insects that can be green, yellow, brown, black or red. They can be found on the underside of leaves, along stems or on buds or flowers.

Aphids excrete a sticky substance called honeydew, which can attract ants or cause sooty mold to develop on the plant’s surface. If your coleus plant has any of these symptoms, then it is likely infested with aphids.

Natural Ways to Get Rid of Aphids

1. Blast them away with water

One of the easiest ways to get rid of aphids on coleus plants is by blasting them away with water. Simply use a hose or spray bottle to spray water over the infested areas. The force of the water will knock off the aphids from the plant, killing them or sending them away.

2. Use Neem Oil

Neem oil is a natural insecticide that is effective against aphids. It contains a compound called azadirachtin that disrupts the aphids’ feeding and reproductive processes, causing them to die or leave the plant. Mix 2 teaspoons of neem oil with a quart of water and spray the solution on the coleus plant, focusing on the infested areas.

3. Use Garlic Spray

Garlic has natural insecticidal properties that can kill aphids. Crush a few garlic cloves and mix with water. Leave the mixture overnight, strain it, and then spray the solution on the coleus plant. Repeat this process every few days until the aphids are gone.

4. Plant companion plants

Planting certain companion plants can help repel aphids from your coleus plant. Plants like marigold, basil, and mint have strong odor or taste that repels aphids. You can plant these plants around your coleus plant to deter aphids from coming near.

Chemical Ways to Get Rid of Aphids

If natural remedies do not work, you may have to resort to chemical control methods. However, be sure to use pesticides that are safe for your coleus plant and follow the instructions on the label.

1. Insecticidal Soap

Insecticidal soap is made from potassium salts of fatty acids and is a low-toxicity insecticide that is effective against aphids. It works by suffocating the aphids’ breathing pores and disrupting their cellular membranes. Spray the solution on the coleus plant, focusing on the infested areas.

2. Pyrethrin-based Insecticides

Pyrethrin-based insecticides are extracted from chrysanthemum flowers and are effective against aphids. They work by attacking the nervous system of insects and killing them within minutes. Apply as directed on the label.

Prevention

Prevention is always better than cure when it comes to pest control. Here are some tips to prevent aphids from attacking your coleus plant:

• Keep your coleus plant healthy by providing it with the right amount of light, water, and nutrients.
• Regularly inspect your plants for pests and remove any infested areas immediately.
• Avoid over-fertilizing your plants as this can attract aphids.
• Plant companion plants that can repel aphids.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best way to get rid of aphids on coleus plants?

The best way to get rid of aphids on coleus plants is by using natural remedies such as blasting them away with water, using neem oil, or planting companion plants. If these methods do not work, you may have to resort to chemical control methods such as insecticidal soap or pyrethrin-based insecticides.

How do I prevent aphids from attacking my coleus plant?

You can prevent aphids from attacking your coleus plant by keeping it healthy, regularly inspecting it for pests, avoiding over-fertilizing, and planting companion plants that can repel aphids.

Can I use dish soap to kill aphids?

Yes, you can use dish soap to kill aphids. Mix 1 teaspoon of dish soap with a quart of water and spray the solution on the infested areas. However, be careful not to use excessive amounts of soap as it can harm your plant.