Aphids are unpleasant parasites that are probably a thorn in the side of every gardener. They also like to find broccoli in order to rob it of its nutrients. Read below about the damage the pests cause and how you can fight them.
How can lice on broccoli be effectively combated?
Lice on broccoli can be effectively combated withbeneficial insectssuch as ladybirds and lacewings as well as with home-madesprays.soap solution,neem oilornettle broth, all of which are suitable for spraying onto the areas affected by aphids Can eliminate aphids.
How do lice have a detrimental effect on broccoli?
Lice suck the sap out of the broccoli plants andweakenthereby weakening the plant and itsgrowthIn the worst case, it can lead to completecrop failures are coming. The leaves of broccoli become twisted due to the sucking activity of the aphids and turn white-yellow to pink. This also makes the broccoli less visually appealing. Furthermore, the lice multiply on the broccoli and lay their eggs on the roots. The following year the larvae hatch and attack the plants at the location again.
How can I recognize aphids on broccoli?
It is usually the so-called mealy cabbage aphid, which you can recognize by its eponymouswhite color. It is round2 mm small and prefers hot and dry climates, which is why it appears particularly often and preferably on the underside and top of the leaves of broccoli. As a rule, this pest of broccoli appears on the plants from June onwards. Other cabbage plants such as cauliflower and kohlrabi are also the speci alty of the cabbage aphid.
How can you fight lice on broccoli with insects?
Beneficial insects such asladybird larvae, lacewings, gall midges, parasitic waspsandhoverflies are natural enemies of aphids. They eat these pests and can be applied directly to the broccoli plants.
How can lice be destroyed on broccoli?
With a solution ofneem oil, rapeseed oil, soapornettles you can specifically destroy lice on broccoli. All you have to do is mix the product of your choice with water, put it in a spray bottle and spray directly onto the affected areas. This bet may be required multiple times.
Does crop rotation affect aphid risk for broccoli?
If the crop rotationis not observedand broccoli is planted in the location after other heavy feeders such as brassicas,increasestheRisk of aphid infestation. It is therefore better to plant broccoli after weak feeders and in mixed culture with plants that deter lice, such as rosemary, sage, thyme or savory.
How can lice on broccoli be prevented?
With the help of avegetable protection net,straw mulch, sufficientfertilizer applicationsand regularWater supply, aphids on broccoli can be prevented. It is also recommended to pile up the broccoli.
Tip
Don't overdo the nitrogen dose
If you fertilize your broccoli too intensively with nitrogen, you increase the risk of a lice infestation. Nitrogen makes the parts of the broccoli plant softer and pests have an easy time getting to the nourishing juice. Therefore, do not over-fertilize your broccoli plants!
