The MGS Forum

Gardening in mediterranean climates => Pests and diseases => Topic started by: MikeHardman on October 13, 2011, 06:14:50 AM

Title: Aphis neri - yellow/orange aphid on oleander and milkweed (Asclepias)
Post by: MikeHardman on October 13, 2011, 06:14:50 AM

In a different thread, David gives an ID for this aphid; I put this link here just for ready reference.
Click on the 'Quote from...' line to go to that thread.

Quote from: David Bracey on October 12, 2011, 08:23:51 PM

Your yellow aphid is A neri.  The following extract was taken from a Languedoc branch report "Ten members replied that their most important insect pest was aphid or greenfly.  A.neri, the yellow oleander species is their major problem. This aphid can overwinter on Euphorbiaceae and Asclepiadaceae (milkweed) species, both local weeds."  

Title: Re: Aphis neri - yellow/orange aphid on oleander and milkweed (Asclepias)
Post by: Hilary on October 14, 2011, 05:33:13 PM

A neri
At last I know what has been bothering me all summer.
I have a Hoya  carnosa which I have had to inspect on a daily basis and spray with soapy water. The plant has produced lots of new growth this year which the aphids loved  but only one or two flowers.
I have just read somewhere that the aphids don't like the smell of garlic, catnip and mint.
Has anyone tried this?

Title: Re: Aphis neri - yellow/orange aphid on oleander and milkweed (Asclepias)
Post by: David Bracey on October 14, 2011, 08:21:35 PM

This is a popular myth; I have never seen any comparative data however certain people swear buy it ..........companion planting.

Title: Re: Aphis neri - yellow/orange aphid on oleander and milkweed (Asclepias)
Post by: ezeiza on October 16, 2011, 02:57:19 AM

This requires a very simple comprobation: in spring when garlics and onions are in flower guess which little creatures crowd the flower peduncles? Same with Calendula and other sworn by plants.