Roses repel common pest when one 69p kitchen staple is sprayed on blooms

Aphidsare a common sight in the summer, notorious for draining the life out of plants by sucking their sap.

Rosesplagued by aphids may exhibit curled leaves or be coated with a sticky residue known as honeydew, which can lead to sooty mould; however, David Austin Roses reassures that this won't damage the plant.

Now that the temperatures have been reaching its peak, gardening tasks have become more important. While aphids serve as a vital food source for wildlife, gardeners looking to safeguard their roses have a straightforward solution.

On the David Austin Roses Facebook page, Dana Dobrescu enquired: "What do you recommend for my aphid infestation? All my roses are under attack. I used a commercial spray, but it was useless."

READ MORE: Roses that aren't flowering will 'bloom better than ever' thanks to one scrap

The concerned rose enthusiast also posted a photo showing her blooms besieged by aphids. These pests are often lurking on the underside of leaves, making it crucial to inspect these areas frequently and especially during the summer.

The query sparked a flurry of responses from group members, many advocating for a DIY spray, reports the Express. Linda Moran advised: "Spray with washing up liquid and water mixed together."

Jill Heiman suggested: "You could leave them for the ladybugs to eat, but if it's really getting to you, mix washing up liquid and water. Spray the rose and watch aphids slide off."

READ MORE: Japanese maples will thrive if one £12 item is poured onto soil before July

Using diluted washing-up liquid can unsettle the aphids' habitat, but consistent application is necessary, particularly following rainfall. However, it's important to use this soap solution sparingly, as too much can be detrimental to the plants. Alternatively, consider attracting ladybirds to your garden as a natural way to keep aphid populations in check.

According to David Austin Roses: "In most cases, aphids are best left alone. They're an important food source for ladybirds, hoverflies and other beneficial insects and play a crucial role in your garden's ecosystem.

"If their numbers increase, a strong spray of water is usually enough to reduce them. You can also gently rub them away or encourage natural predators by planting companion plants like parsley, yarrow or nasturtiums," he added.

Now more than previous seasons, during the current heatwave and the upcoming summer months, by following these simple advice and instructions, gardeners can rest assured that their outdoor spaces remain vibrant and pest free throughout the hot season. It doesn't require a lot of expertise or extra effort, but simply a couple of sprays.