Q.I Have A Tree In My Yard Infested With Aphids And Whiteflies Spreading To My Potted Plants. It Is Full Of Honeydew As Well. I Can’t
really use poison because of my rabbits roaming free in my yard. I have a tree in my yard (I think it’s covered with honeydew), infested with aphids and whiteflies spreading to my potted plants. I can’t really use poison because of my rabbits roaming free in my yard.
What could I use on my potted plants for these pests . I have all kind of plants, cactus and other fat-plants and peppers, bulbs plus flower plants which do not have contact with animals.
My tree on the other-hand is right over my lawn and other plants the rabbits and my cats are using on a daily basis,
rabbits also eat some of of these plants situated right underneath the tree.
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
My first suggestion is to be sure that any debris is removed from around the tree, like dead leaves, wood, and other debris. If you can, first try removing as many aphids as possible with a firm spray of water. Try to clean up the tree as much as possible, then treat it as directed in this article: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/insects/homemade-aphid-control.htm Your best defense is introducing predators to the mix. This is also true for the whiteflies: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/insects/whitefly-control.htm
The natural measures described in these articles won't harm animals and will create a better balance in your yard.