Recognize and fight pests

Aphids

These insects are among the weak parasites. There are around 800 different types, each differing in size and color. Some of these pests protect themselves with a layer of powdered wax that makes the lice look like they have been powdered.

Prevention and control

Strengthen the health of the hydrangea with regular sprays of field horsetail or nettle broth. Even Mulching prevents infestation.

Aphids can be rinsed off the plant with a hard jet of water. In the case of heavy infestation, we recommend spraying with ecologically compatible products from specialist gardeners.

Mealybug

These vermin protect themselves from drying out by a wax produced in special glands. First, the insects nest in the leaf axils, later they attack the entire plant. They suck on the leaves and part for them hydrangea harmful substances. This causes the leaves to curl up and eventually die.

Prevention and control

Become common Hydrangeasthat hibernate in the house are infested with mealybugs. Usually these plants are too warm and it is sufficient to put the hydrangea in a cool place after spraying it once.

If you can only spot a few lice, it is sufficient to moisten them with a cotton swab soaked in cooking oil or alcohol. Since mealybugs are very stubborn, it is advisable to cut off the colonized parts of the plant and dispose of them in the household waste if the infestation is severe. Spray the hydrangea with a commercially available insecticide and check the plant several times for re-infestation.

Spider mites

You can recognize these arachnids by the small, light green spots on the leaves as well as the webs on the underside of the leaf or the leaf axils. The tiny vermin feed on the sap and can cause massive damage to the hydrangea if they occur in large numbers.

Prevention and control

Fertilize Take the hydrangea regularly so that it develops vigorously and healthily. Strong plants with an intact immune system are often alone with the Spider mites done. Plant strengtheners such as garlic extracts or horsetail broth have a preventive effect.

In the case of very severe infestation, spray the hydrangea with preparations Neem oil contain. These protect beneficial insects and at the same time work very well against them Spider mites.

Snails

Large holes in the middle of the leaf and skeletonized foliage indicate snail infestation. The evening and nocturnal animals hide in daylight. However, the traces of slime on the plant cannot be overlooked.

Prevention and control

A fine crumbly, loose soil is made of Snails avoided. Snail fences, scattered pebbles, coffee powder or wood wool are difficult for the animals to overcome.

Consistent collection is the most promising. Slug pellets(7.60 € at Amazon *) should not be used in the home garden, as it also kills the useful housing snails.

Tips & Tricks

In the early stages, vermin can be fought relatively easily with ecologically compatible means. You should therefore regularly check the hydrangea for infestation.