Take note!! The pest hasn’t bothered us for 3 years. A folk method of fighting aphids. We treated it once and “Aphids fell off”.

That’s fantastic! Folk remedies for aphids can be incredibly effective, and it’s great you’ve found one that works so well. Here’s a breakdown of common and effective folk methods, along with the likely ingredients you used:

Common Folk Remedies for Aphids:

• Soapy Water:
  • A simple solution of mild dish soap and water can suffocate aphids.
  • The soap breaks down their waxy coating.
• Neem Oil:
  • A natural pesticide derived from the neem tree.
  • Disrupts aphid feeding and growth.
• Garlic or Onion Spray:
  
  
  • Garlic and onions contain sulfur compounds that repel aphids.
  • A strong infusion can be sprayed on affected plants.
• Nettle Tea:
  • A fermented nettle tea is rich in nutrients and can strengthen plants, making them less susceptible to aphids.
• Diatomaceous Earth:
  • A natural powder made from fossilized diatoms.
  • It’s abrasive and dehydrates aphids.
• Vinegar Spray:
  
  • A diluted vinegar solution can be used to kill aphids. It is very important to make sure that this solution is very diluted, because vinegar can also kill plants.
• Milk Spray:
  • A diluted milk spray has also been known to kill aphids.

Likely Ingredients and Why They Work:

Given that your method worked with a single application and provided three years of protection, it likely involved ingredients with strong repellent or pesticidal properties. Here are the most probable components:

• Garlic/Onion: These are potent aphid deterrents.
• Soapy Water: This would have provided the immediate “falling off” effect.
• Neem Oil: If included, this would have offered longer-term protection.

General Application Tips:

• Spray affected plants thoroughly, especially the undersides of leaves where aphids tend to congregate.
• Repeat applications may be necessary, especially after rain.
• Test any solution on a small area of the plant first to ensure it doesn’t cause damage.
• Apply these solutions in the early morning or late evening to avoid sun damage.

It’s wonderful that you’ve discovered a successful natural aphid control method. These techniques are often gentler on the environment and safer for beneficial insects.