Blackfly on my beans

Discussion in 'Edible Gardening' started by leonora, Jul 7, 2011.

  1. leonora

    leonora Gardener

    Joined:
    Sep 29, 2006
    Messages:
    282
    Gender:
    Female
    Occupation:
    Retired (translator)
    Location:
    London
    Ratings:
    +29
    Does anyone know any organic method(s) of getting rid of the blackfly which is currently devastating my bean crop?
     
  2. shiney

    shiney President, Grumpy Old Men's Club Staff Member

    Joined:
    Jul 3, 2006
    Messages:
    64,675
    Gender:
    Male
    Occupation:
    Retired - Last Century!!!
    Location:
    Herts/Essex border. Zone 8b
    Ratings:
    +126,561
    There are some organic pesticides that can be used, such as pyrethrin. You could probably google them.

    A lot of people use dilute washing up liquid but make sure you don't use it at times of the day when bees and ladybirds are around - although, if the ladybirds are around, you wouldn't have the blackfly problem. Ladybirds tend not to start working on the blackfly until they are in sufficient concentration to make it worth their while :)

    A Neem oil dilution is also supposed to work well. As is a mixture made by soaking hot chillies in water (be sure to strain the water before spraying and wear a mask or cloth over your nose and mouth). Both of these need to be used at the right time of day as well as they are contact killers.

    There are some commercial killers such as BugClear etc.

    If there is not too much to do you could wash them off by hand or hose.
     
    • Like Like x 1
    • leonora

      leonora Gardener

      Joined:
      Sep 29, 2006
      Messages:
      282
      Gender:
      Female
      Occupation:
      Retired (translator)
      Location:
      London
      Ratings:
      +29
      Thanx, have been using dilute washing-up liquid, seems to be working!
       
    • lordspudz

      lordspudz Gardener

      Joined:
      Dec 3, 2010
      Messages:
      47
      Ratings:
      +2
      I used diluted washing up liquid on my Broad Beans which suddenly became covered with black fly overnight!!
      Wiped them out in no time leaving a few for the ladybirds to feast on.
       
    Loading...

    Share This Page

    1. This site uses cookies to help personalise content, tailor your experience and to keep you logged in if you register.
      By continuing to use this site, you are consenting to our use of cookies.
      Dismiss Notice