posted 7 years ago
Hello! I'm still new to all of this (everything!). Looking for help with an aphid infestation.
We have an aggressive aphid problem on our mature plum tree and now my potted dill, and I'm assuming there are more to come for my other plants. I found the aphids after noticing the dill plant looked a little unhealthy, and I noticed it was covered in ants (I'm guessing they are herding the aphids). We are in a large grassy area, surrounded by other grassy properties in the high desert of Central Oregon. The dill is in a pot right next to some yarrow, cilantro and parsley (but nothing is flowering yet). The plum tree has plenty of leaf curl where the aphids are hiding.
I've looked around and have found that green lacewing larvae are recommended predators for aphid problems. Is it "ok" to order these online, or does that open up a can of worms for other problems by introducing a new bug population artificially like that?
I know ladybugs also control aphids, but I really don't think I have never seen a single one on our property. I'm adding more and more flowering plants every year but there is still much to be done.
Thank you for your thoughts!