Chemical Remedies
Insecticidal soap
Examples:
Safer Insecticidal Soap, Ortho (Orthoganics) Insecticidal Soap.
Effective Against:
Soft-bodied insects such as aphids, mealybugs, whiteflies, mites.
Crops:
Foliage plants, flowers, shrubs, trees, vegetables, fruits, and nuts.
Counteracts these pest(s):
Aphid
When To Use:
First try washing pests off with a stream of water. Apply when insect damage becomes unacceptable and pests are present.
How To Use:
Read the label and mix as directed. Spray carefully to wet insects thoroughly. Product acts by directly contacting exterior of insects, so you must be sure to wet all insects. Repeat if needed. May damage some sensitive plants, especially when sprayed in direct sunlight. Read label for list of sensitive plants and test on a small area before treating a large portion of plant. Be very careful not to let any soap get into lakes, streams or other water systems.
Benefits:
Relatively non-toxic, biodegradable - contains a combination of soap, alcohol, and water. Not broadly toxic to beneficial insects.
Concerns:
You may have to apply often to control aphids, perhaps as often as every five days. Toxic to fish and other aquatic species. Spraying may damage some sensitive plants.