Re: Pings with Apid infestations

Paul Temple 02-May-1996 1436 (temple_p@fangio.enet.dec.com)
Thu, 2 May 96 15:37:48 MET DST

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Tom

>People have commented before about dealing with aphids on Drosera; as I
>recall one suggestion was to emerse in water for a few days. Some of
>my US pings are infested right now. Any suggestions about treatment?
>Has anyone dunked their pings the same way?

Yes I've tried dunking. You americans should know the problem (I'm
being naughty, reference to Salem Witch hunts and all that!!!). If you
dunkl the Pings long enough to take effect, the Pings die along with or
before the aphids; in other words, Aphids are Olympic style athletes
when it comes to holding their breath.

My technique is to avoid the infestation by monthly burning of anti aphid
candles (they're cone shaped fireworks that put out a poisonous smoke - light
the blue touch paper and run like hell. Available from all sadistic plant
stores.).
But if you still get an infestation, I find a household insect spray can is
best. I spray direct from the aerosol can but not close up. I let a very fine
mist drop onto the plants for about a second or very little more. The aphids
all die and if you get it right, the plant doesn't quite die (but it usually
looks as if it is thinking about it).

Harsh I know, but it works for me.

Regards

Paul