I got this plant a few months ago and put it in the ground. It was doing okay, struggling quite a bit from the heat I guess. But recently, it has been dropping off stems midway and all the leaves are falling off. I found this on the back and think it's aphids and something else? Any suggestions on how I can save this?
by skye285
2 Comments
Aphids.
Aphids love milkweed. And often, ants will bring them to the milkweed and fight off predators like lady bugs.
You can easily smoosh them with your fingers if you don’t mind a little bug juice.
But for bigger infestations, neem oil and soap or insecticidal soap is the way to go.
Definitely aphids for the orange guys. I’ve gone out several times to check my milkweed and end up pulling on a dispoable glove and giving them a good smush. Hosing mine off only damaged the plant. If you go with insecticidal soap you may end up killing off some friendly bugs too, just a warning.
I think the white may be whiteflies? They dont look like juvenile aphids to me.