Aloe vera ( Aloe barbadensis ) is native to Africa , but has been cultivated and used medicinally in many character of the earth for over 6,000 years . Over 180 species exist , all succulents with stamp leaves that are very susceptible to Robert Lee Frost price . bitter aloes grow twelvemonth - round out of doors in fond , mild climates . In temperate mood , they originate as houseplants during winter calendar month .

Significance

intelligent aloe vera plants will live a small aphid plague with no ill effects . But big aphid populations can do considerable damage . Black sooty mold fungus or coloured swelling or growths ( gall ) may appear on the leaves . The stems may be misformed or shrunken . Additionally , aphids release a sticky substance called honeydew that puddles on the ground or floor around the infected plant .

Identification

aphid shroud on the underside of plant life leaves and may be chocolate-brown , hoary or unripened , depending on the species . A sticky floor under plants is a tell - tale polarity of aphid infestation . Ant colonies around the plant also signal a possible aphid infestation since ants eat honeydew , according to the University of California at Davis Integrated Pest Management Program ( UC IPM ) .

Natural Solutions

Hosing the undersides of leaves with a high - pressure garden hosiery will ruin most aphid . aphid have many rude predators , including ladybugs and lace wings . drill such as providing natural habitats for these insects and fend off the use of pesticides will encourage good insect to make your garden home . These voracious predators are efficacious at keeping aphids under control , according to UC IPM .

Natural Insecticides

Insecticidal easy lay coat the consistency of aphid , smothering them . These products must coat the worm to work in effect and are n’t effective on aphid larvae . According to the Missouri Botanical Garden , insecticidal max are not toxic to shuttlecock , pets or the adult chassis of beneficial insects like ladybugs or pray mantis . Insecticidal soap are ineffective once they ’ve dry , so re - app is often necessary .

Warning

Chemical insect powder should be avoided or used very cautiously , advises UC IPM . These products toss off all insect and may even hurt bird and Pisces . They also contaminate weewee organisation and ground water system . Generally , their voltage for impairment outweighs any positive effects they may have .

References

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