Forsythia invaded by black flies!

I've just been out tidying the front garden and noticed that my forsythia (which is growing in a a very large pot) seems to have been invaded by black flies of some kind.

It has been underplanted with violas and petunias and I wondered if this may have caused the problem... should I remove them?

It is also just along from some potted roses which had aphids on them but which have been sprayed and seem to be ok now.

Could I spray the Forsythia with the Roseclear spray?

Thank you for your help!

 

try getting a spray bottle and filling with 3/4 water and 1/4 olive or vegetable oil. give a good shake and spray the plants with it. it helps to lock the little buggers and drown them. but remember to shake it every time you use it. as oil and water seperate. hope it helps.

 

also certain herbs and other plants are good deterents, but can take a while to work with companion planting.

 

Hi Hetty, you could spray the forsythia with the Roseclear or any other general purpose insecticide.
Or look for an organic insect spray which is harmless to bees, ladybirds etc.
Or mix up a very weak solution of water and detergent (washing up liquid) and spray with that.