How To Prevent/treat Aphids On Milkweed?

Question

I live in SE Louisiana. Have container grown milkweed near a flow well that runs continuously. Plants get full sun. Aphid invasion has been bad this year.

Answer 1

You can't treat it with an insecticide because it would kill the caterpillars. You can try a spray of water, but I find the aphids just hang on. I have taken a paper towel and smashed them. Usually the beneficial bugs come along and eat the aphids.

You can try planting plants nearby that repel aphids such as garlic or chives. This article tells more:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/insects/plants-that-repel-aphids.htm