How to Get Rid of Aphids on African Marigold Flowers

African marigolds (Tagetes erecta) are bold brightly colored flowers that can add cheer and vibrancy to any garden. Their big pom-pom blooms come in shades of orange, yellow, and red. These hardy annuals are easy to grow and bloom prolifically from early summer until frost.

Unfortunately, aphids often plague these popular flowers. Aphids are tiny sap-sucking insects that colonize the stems and leaves of plants. An aphid infestation can stunt your marigold plants, cause wilting or curling leaves, and even kill the plant if left unchecked. Getting rid of aphids on African marigolds takes diligence, but is doable using organic methods.

Identifying Aphids on Marigolds

The first step is learning how to identify aphids on your marigolds. Aphids are very small, about 1/8 inch long, and come in colors like green, yellow, black, or pink. They tend to gather in large groups on stems or on the undersides of leaves.

Signs of an aphid infestation include:

• Sticky honeydew residue on leaves or stems. This is secreted by the aphids.
• Ants gathering on the plant, feeding on the honeydew.
• Curled, wrinkled, or damaged leaves and flowers.
• Stunted or weakened marigold plants.

Inspect the stems and both sides of leaves carefully to spot these tiny pests early before the infestation spreads

Organic Ways to Control Aphids

Once you’ve confirmed aphids are attacking your marigolds, it’s time to take action. Here are some effective organic methods to get rid of aphids and protect your flowers:

Strong Water Spray

One of the simplest control methods is blasting aphids off the plant with a strong jet of water. Focus on the undersides of leaves and crevices in the stems where aphids hide. The force of the water knocks many of them off the plant entirely. Do this two or three times per week until the infestation clears.

Insecticidal Soap

Insecticidal soap sprays are very effective against soft-bodied insects like aphids. The soap penetrates their outer shell and causes dehydration. Mix 2 1/2 tablespoons of insecticidal soap with 1 gallon of water. Spray liberally over the marigolds, especially the undersides of leaves. Reapply every 5-7 days until aphids are gone.

Neem Oil

Neem oil is a botanical insecticide that disrupts aphid reproduction and feeding habits. Mix neem oil with water according to label directions. For severe infestations, use the higher concentration. Thoroughly spray leaves, stems, and flowers. Reapply weekly until pests are under control.

Diatomaceous Earth

This powdery substance is made from fossilized algae and damages the waxy outer coating of soft-bodied insects. Dust a light layer onto leaves and flowers avoiding the soil. Reapply after rain or watering. Use food-grade diatomaceous earth only.

Encourage Natural Predators

Ladybugs, lacewings, hoverflies, and other beneficial insects feed on aphids. Attract them to your garden by planting pollen and nectar sources like daisies, cosmos, and yarrow. You can also purchase live ladybugs to release onto infested plants.

Remove Heavily Infested Growth

Prune off badly damaged leaves, stems, or flowers that are covered with aphids. This can reduce their numbers and slow their spread. Discard the clippings far from the garden to prevent reinfestation.

Preventative Measures

Once you get aphids under control, take steps to prevent future attacks on your marigolds:

• Avoid over-fertilization which causes excessive, soft growth that attracts aphids.

• Check for signs of pests frequently and treat early before they multiply.

• Use floating row covers as a barrier to protect plants.

• Rotate marigold planting locations each year.

• Clean up debris in fall to remove overwintering sites.

• Plant nasturtiums, chives, and other companions as repellents.

• Use insecticidal soap periodically as a deterrent.

With diligence and prompt action, you can protect your beautiful African marigolds from destruction by aphids. Combining multiple organic control methods often provides the best results. Your efforts will keep these cheery flowers thriving all season long.