The varieties of aphids that attack plum trees are very dangerous pests that can destroy plants. The small size of these insects is offset by the scale of the disasters they cause. Feeding on plant juices, aphids on plums deplete them. Because of this, affected specimens begin to lag in growth. They also look sick and weak.
The flowering period of such plants occurs with a delay or does not occur at all. If fruits are formed, they are small in size. May be deformed. And their taste suffers. Deformed, insect-covered leaves indicate an aphid invasion of the plum tree.
If measures are not taken against pests, damage will be caused not only to the foliage. This will lead to the death of the crop and, as a rule, the entire plant. Every gardener should know about preventive measures. And also about how to treat plums against aphids and what to do if aphids eat the plum.
Aphids on plums: danger of infection
Aphids on plum: photo
It's not just plum trees that are at risk of aphid infestation. But also other stone fruit plants. Except for cherries. However, it is plum trees that are especially often infected with aphids, which sometimes cover them entirely. The sweet trail it leaves attracts ants. It is also a breeding ground for various fungi and microorganisms. Their appearance provokes the development of infections. Because of this, the stems, foliage and fruits of plum trees become deformed and turn black. The harvest from such trees is unpresentable in appearance and tasteless. And also often not at all suitable for human consumption.
The gluttony of aphids is combined with a high level of fertility. After overwintering in plant debris and infected plants, aphid larvae awaken with the arrival of spring. And they are starting to spread actively. The first, newly hatched leaves are infected. Every 10-14 days a new generation of pests appears. They are easily recognized by three dark stripes along the back of yellow, beige, pale pink or greenish.
Aphids feed on plant juices. If there are not enough of them, it mutates. Namely, it grows wings and flies to neighboring trees. This provokes a massive invasion of plum orchards. Getting rid of such highly adaptable pests becomes even more difficult. During the season, aphids produce about 20 new generations of offspring. Therefore, it can cover large areas of plum plantings.
In this article we will talk about how to fight against aphid infestation of plum trees. How to prevent aphid infestations. And what to do if it does happen.
What harm can an insect cause to an apple tree?
Understanding what type they belong to will help you choose the right weapon for pest control. The main types of garden aphids:
- The red gall aphid got its name because of a feature: the habitat of this species causes swelling on the leaves of the plant - galls. The insect is brown in color and reaches about 2 mm in length.
- Gray aphids attack mature trees. The hemispherical body of the pest is painted dark gray, and the head, tail, mustache and paws are black. The vital activity of aphids occurs on the back side of the leaves, which curls them down in the form of wrinkled burgundy rollers.
- Green aphids are fertile and can produce 12 generations per season in favorable climatic conditions, and in cold regions - half as much, which is also quite a lot. The pest in adulthood reaches no more than 2 mm in length and has a bright green color.
Harmfulness of insects:
- trees slow down;
- fruit buds appear and ripen late;
- tree fruits become small and often fall off;
- weakened shoots are less prepared for winter conditions;
- trees are prone to the appearance of other pests: ants, tree beetles;
- the vulnerability of plants, especially young ones, to fungi and infectious agents appears;
- dust settles on the leaves due to honeydew produced by aphids.
When colonizing plants en masse, gray aphids damage not only the leaves, but also the fruits, as evidenced by small red spots on them.
Aphids on plums: prevention
Aphids on plums: photo of the pest
Preventive measures include the mandatory removal of plant debris such as peeled bark or broken branches. Because it is in them that aphid larvae most often overwinter. It is better not to simply pluck these potential sources of infection from the tree. But also take it out of the garden, or even better, burn it. When cutting branches, you should not forget about disinfection and protection of the cut points.
It is best to cover the wounds on the trunk and branches of the plum and the trunk itself with a layer of lime whitewash. Taking care of the soil in which the plum grows will reduce the risk of aphid infestation. First, it is necessary to maintain sufficient moisture levels in the soil by conserving it through mulching. Secondly, the application of fertilizing is indicated. For example, an aqueous solution based on potassium sulfate (3 tablespoons per bucket of water).
Timely weeding will also help protect the plum from pest infestation. Choosing the right plant neighbors can provide protection against aphids. Therefore, it is recommended to plant herbs and herbs next to the plum tree. For example, dill, coriander, cilantro, parsley. Their pleasant smell to humans is poorly tolerated by aphids. It also has a repellent effect on the pest.
But proximity to linden or viburnum is extremely dangerous. Because these crops are attractive to aphids. They can serve as a source of infection. Aphids will migrate from these plants to the plum tree, spreading throughout the entire planting area.
As a preventative treatment, it is recommended to spray plum trees with an aqueous solution of diesel fuel. Even before the first buds appear. If an aphid infestation does occur, the few pests can be flushed away by a high-pressure water jet. Leaves damaged by them must be immediately torn off and destroyed.
Green attack
Ants do not like some plants with strong odors. This is successfully used by many gardeners and gardeners. Plants that repel ants include:
- garlic;
- sagebrush;
- lavender;
- marigolds;
- laurel;
- cinnamon;
- mint.
You can use steep decoctions of these plants, which are used to spray seedlings and seedlings or to flood anthills. They are also planted in the vegetable garden and garden. It is worth remembering that these products do not kill pests, but simply force them to stay as far away from the source of the smell as possible. Also, some owners of personal plots advise feeding the ants with certain cereals.
Dangerous to insects include:
- millet;
- semolina;
- corn grits and flour.
This method has both supporters and opponents. But even those who are convinced of the effectiveness of such bait note that feeding must be carried out regularly over several weeks.
Another well-known method: pour boiling water or saline solution into the anthill. It should not be used near plants, as it can damage the roots. But, it is very effective for gazebos, garden paths and recreation areas.
Recommended video: How to get rid of ants in the garden and aphids on trees
How to treat plums against aphids?
The chemicals sold in specialized stores are the most effective against aphids. They differ in the mechanism of their effect on pests:
- The preparations “Karbofos”, “Fufan”, “Furi”, “Arrivo” infect pests through direct contact. They penetrate through the upper membranes into the insect's body. His internal organs are poisoned. Which leads to his death. Copper-based mixtures are suitable for re-processing plums at the end of the flowering period.
- Once in the aphid’s digestive system, “Confidor” or “BI-58 Novy” poisons the insect. And they lead him to almost instant death.
- A systemic drug that penetrates the plant sap and poisons aphids is Aktara. This chemical is not washed off by rain. This ensures a fairly long period of action.
- The most environmentally friendly and safe for humans, as well as beneficial insects, are preparations that include microorganisms. For example, “Fitoverm” and “Akarin”.
- During the fruiting period of plums, treatment with the preparation “30 Plus” is possible. It envelops the fruits in a thin layer that does not allow the air and moisture necessary for insects to pass through. Without receiving the oxygen and water necessary for life, the aphid dies quite quickly.
Constant use of the same chemical helps to build immunity in aphids. Therefore, it is necessary to alternate them from time to time. 3 weeks before harvest, any chemical treatments should be stopped to prevent them from penetrating the fruit tissue. Because this can lead to loss of their taste. And also cause harm to people who eat them.
Chemical destruction of aphids during the plum blossom period is strictly contraindicated. Because it can harm pollinating insects. For example, bees and bumblebees.
Biological drugs
The active components of biological products are natural substances - waste products of bacteria, insects, and fungi. They are effective for 10 days, there is no immediate effect. The preparations are absolutely safe for humans and non-toxic for plants.
You can treat plums after flowering:
- Akarin;
- the drug Fitoverm;
- Entobacterin;
- means Tanrek;
- Spark;
- Aktara.
The solution must be made immediately before use. The product is poured into a spray bottle, watering can, or spray bottle. The choice depends on the number of trees and plant height.
Preparations for aphids
How to save a plum from aphids using folk methods
If you're interested in using fewer chemicals, gardeners recommend turning to nature for help. The natural enemies of this pest are ladybugs. Attracting these beneficial insects to your garden will help drive away aphids. From the very beginning of the season until its end, spotted predators destroy the constantly breeding aphids.
This beneficial property of ladybugs has been known for a long time. And it provides them with the universal respect of gardeners and protection. Aphids form the basis of nutrition for these cute predators. They specifically settle near pest colonies in order to have constant access to a food source. The larvae of ladybirds are particularly voracious. They are the ones who can destroy entire colonies of pests as quickly as possible.
To attract beneficial predators to the garden, you need to plant calendula in close proximity to plum trees. You can also provide ladybugs with a place for wintering so that they do not leave the garden during cold weather. As a rule, you can use an ordinary wooden log with drilled holes as a shelter. In them insects will be able to wait out the winter. Birds can also significantly reduce pest populations. Therefore, it is worth taking care of birdhouses in the garden.
Insecticides
Ants can also be controlled using modern means. Chemicals are mainly available in the following forms:
| Types of products | What are they? | Preferred use |
| Gels | Tubes with extended tip | Places where insects gather |
| Traps | Products with adhesive or poisonous additives | Destroy trapped insects. Poisoned bait is more effective |
| Liquid preparations and sprays | The drugs require the preparation of a solution, while sprays can be used immediately | Prevention and protection of the garden, greenhouse and vegetable garden |
| Powdered and granular products | Bulk preparations are used to treat the area around the trees, and granules are scattered along the paths of pest movement. | Places where ants move around the garden |
| Aerosols | An effective and fast remedy. Kills pests almost instantly | Used to directly pollinate ants |
Nowadays there is a lot of talk about the dangers of using chemical treatments for plants. But modern agrochemicals are effective and do not pose a threat to people. You just need to follow the instructions for their use. It is better to work in a respirator and rubber gloves. This will eliminate any allergic reactions.
How to save a plum tree from aphids after the plant is damaged?
Aphids on plum: photo
To remove the constant companions of aphids, ants, from an area, it is usually enough to cover the tree trunks with burlap. Saturate it with grease or insect glue. In the absence of burlap, you can use corrugated cardboard. If there are too many ants and you cannot get rid of them using the method described above, you can use traditional methods.
For example, you can pour boiling water over ant holes. And also sprinkle them with chopped ash or tomato greens. Ants cannot stand their smell. Toxic baits are more effective. However, their production requires special care to avoid poisoning the gardener himself. So, you can mix boric acid in powder form with sweet, viscous substances. For example, honey, syrup, jam, jam, or granulated sugar.
The resulting mixture should be placed in areas with the greatest concentration of ants. Some gardeners recommend sprinkling anthills or minks with regular millet or semolina. Baker's yeast has a detrimental effect on ants. Mix them with honey or sugar syrup. The mixture can be placed in small containers like bottle caps. And also apply it to the surface of pieces of cardboard.
Finally, if traditional methods turn out to be ineffective, all that remains is to resort to the help of chemicals. Places where there is a constant and maximum concentration of ants can be shed with a solution based on products such as “Muracid” or “Anteater”. Insecticidal pastes can be spread on small boards or pieces of cardboard. And place it near ant holes.
You can find quite a large number of ready-made traps on sale. However, these ant control products have a very short service life. And they decompose within weeks. Thus, they have to be replaced regularly to prevent new insect infestations. Spraying plums with infusions of plants that have insecticidal properties is also effective. Plum aphids cannot tolerate the smell of tobacco, garlic, yarrow, dandelion, green potatoes and tomatoes.
Rules for processing trees
Having chosen any of the chemicals, you must strictly observe precautions when working to destroy aphids in order to harm the insects and not yourself:
- strictly adhere to the dosage specified in the instructions for the drug;
- use a respirator and safety glasses;
- do not smoke, eat or drink while working with poison;
- remove unauthorized people and pets from the area;
- If your health worsens and poison enters the body, take first aid measures for poisoning.
Regardless of the product chosen to combat aphids, you should adhere to general recommendations for spraying:
- Carry out the first treatment in early spring, the second before the plum leaves bloom, and the third before the formation of buds. During the summer, the insect colony may reappear. Then the treatment is carried out no later than 1-1.5 months before harvesting the fruits.
- A dry, windless day is suitable for spraying plums.
- It is forbidden to spray trees on a hot afternoon - the poison can be destructive to the foliage, and the toxic fumes can be harmful to humans.
- Insecticidal preparations destroy not only pests, but also other insects that do not pose a danger to garden plants. Therefore, they should be used only when clearly necessary.
- It is unacceptable to process plums during flowering, since toxic substances are destructive to pollinating insects (bees, wasps, bumblebees).
Compliance with these rules will help minimize the negative impact of “chemistry” on human health and the environment.
Aphids on plums: recipes for insecticidal mixtures
- Pour 1 liter of cow's milk into a 7-10 liter bucket of water. Process the plum.
- A mixture of tobacco chips and ash (or hydrated lime) also helps repel aphids.
- Treatment twice with a soap solution before and after flowering will help get rid of harmful insects. Does not harm the plum tree itself and people who eat its fruits. To make this product, both household and green insecticide soap in liquid form are suitable.
- A glass of onion peel should be filled with a bucket of water. Leave for 5 days. After this, you can treat the plum with the strained infusion.
- A pound of crushed garlic cloves should be poured into 3 liters of water and left in a dark place for 5-6 days. Immediately before processing, 60 g of concentrate must be diluted with 10 liters of water and added 50 0 soap shavings to fix the solution on the leaves.
- An infusion based on green tomatoes and potatoes in combination with celandine is aged for 3 days and used to treat plum trees.
- An effective remedy for combating aphids is a 3-day infusion of 1 kg of nettle, filled with 10 liters of water.
- The already mentioned laundry soap is used to prepare the emulsion: 1/4 bar of soap, 1/2 cup of kerosene and 10 liters of hot water.
- An infusion of horse sorrel is prepared quite quickly: it is enough to soak 300 g of its roots in 10 liters of boiling water for just 4 hours.
- At the end of the plum flowering period, it can be treated against aphids with a solution of 50 g of urea per 10 liters of water.
Signs of appearance
It is possible to determine the infestation of a plum tree by aphids before the ovaries appear during preventive pruning in the spring. Found in damaged areas under the bark, on branches in small cracks.
At the end of May and beginning of June, signs that a colony has started will be:
- deformation, curling of foliage, drying out;
- the appearance of growths on shoots;
- yellowness on the leaves (along the veins);
- bulge, unevenness on the plate.
The hallmark of the presence of aphids will be ants. They actively move along the branches and tree trunk, making the paths visible to the naked eye.
The reason for the appearance of ants: traces left by a green insect with a sugary taste, which the “ground dwellers” really like.
With the help of ants, aphids move to neighboring crops, as the former drag them from place to place.
When severely damaged by harmful insects, the back side of the plum leaf is covered with clutches of eggs and adult individuals.
