🐞Why do my Hanging Baskets have Aphids?

If you've noticed aphids on your hanging baskets, don't worry—it's a very common problem at this time of year.

Many commercial growers use neonicotinoid pesticides, which are absorbed by the plant and continue killing aphids for up to three months. While they are very effective, they can also harm bees and other beneficial insects that visit the flowers.

We choose not to use neonicotinoid pesticides because protecting pollinators is important to us. The trade-off is that our baskets may develop aphids during the growing season. We believe that's a worthwhile compromise if it means creating a safer environment for bees and other beneficial insects.

How to Control Aphids

The good news is that aphids are easy to manage.

What should you do?

✔️ Purchase an insecticidal soap from your local garden centre.
✔️ Spray the plant until it drips, making sure to cover all surfaces thoroughly, especially the undersides of the leaves.
✔️ Insecticidal soap works by contact, so good coverage is essential. It typically controls about 50% of the aphids with each application, so repeat treatments are necessary.
✔️ Always read and follow the label directions.

A few aphids don't mean your basket is unhealthy—they're simply part of gardening without long-lasting systemic insecticides. With a little care, your baskets will continue to thrive and bloom beautifully all season long.

Thank you for supporting gardening practices that help protect our pollinators. 🌸🐝