a safe and simple way is all you need to stop aphids in their tracks

description: adults range in color from dark green to bluish-black.

life cycle: They have many generations each year and they overwinter in their egg stage.

host plants: Bean, beet, chard, pea, rhubarb and spinach.

feeding habits: Aphids gather on succulent plants foliage and stems, depleting them by sucking their juices.  Their leaves turn yellow and the plant is weakened.

prevention and control: Spray foliage with soapy water, then rinse with fresh water. Then go out and get some hungry ladybirds (ladybugs), like the one seen here. Add some plants in your yard that attract ladybugs.  See page on "good bugs".  Let the predatary cycle work to your benefit

a home remedy for aphids:

1 quart water

1 grated lemon rind

cheesecloth

Bring water to a boil, add lemon rind and remove from heat.  Allow to steep overnight and strain through the cheescloth the following day.  Best method for application is with a spray bottle.  Apply to leaves where aphids congregate. Liquid must come in contact with the insects body to be effective.