Roses will be free of aphids when sprayed with two-ingredient solution

Aphids, particularly prevalent in the summer months, attack plants by draining their sap. Roses ravaged by aphids might exhibit curling leaves or be coated with a sticky residue called honeydew, potentially leading to sooty mould, although David Austin Roses assures that this doesn't harm the plant.

To cut down an aphid population without harming your roses, Dana Dobrescu asked for advice on the David Austin Roses Facebook page. They said: "What do you recommend for my aphid infestation? All my roses are under attack. I used a commercial spray, but it was useless."

Accompanying her query, the rose gardener posted a snapshot showing her roses besieged by countless aphids.

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Frequent checks under leaves are crucial, as aphids love to hide there.

The post sparked a flurry of responses suggesting a handcrafted remedy, reports the Express.

Group members like Linda Moran advocated for a concoction of dish soap and water, advising: "Spray with washing up liquid and water mixed together."

Alternatively, 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."

Using diluted washing-up liquid can deter pests, yet requires repeated application, especially post-precipitation.

However, overuse of detergent may damage plants; hence, moderation is key.

Gardeners are being advised to attract ladybirds as a natural solution to tackle aphid problems.

David Austin Roses explained: "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."